Fire Damage Slows Reopen of Garnet A. Wilson Library

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(Waverly) – The Garnet A. Wilson Public Library in Waverly will be closed longer than thought.

Garnet A. Wilson Public Library Director Natosha Jewet has provided an update on the main location in Waverly following a fire that damaged an apartment and resulted in the closure and razing of a long-time Waverly business.

According to Jewett, “A structural engineer has determined no further construction may be done to repair damage until a wall of an adjoining building can be torn down due to safety concerns.”

Jewett said the roof, first floor and basement interior walls/carpet, electrical, etc. must all be replaced. And, she added that the library may not reopen until mid-May or June.  

While the project is moving at a slower pace, Jewett says only so much can be done until permission from the insurance company and structural engineer are approved, not to mention the timeline in which materials can be supplied. 

Anyone wanting to visit the library may use any of the three branch offices, in Piketon at 200 East Second Street, Piketon, Eastern Branch 310 Third Street Beaver and Western Branch 13256 Street Route 124, Piketon, near Idaho.

Anyone with questions or in need of additional information may call, the Piketon office at 740-289-3064, Western branch or the (740) 493-1745 Eastern office at (740) 226-4408.

The fire started in a nearby apartment, causing fire, smoke and water damage to the library  as well as smoke and water damage to the apartment, Denny’s Doghouse and Jessica’s Attic. Perry Glass sustained damage that caused structural damage to the point that the building was razed the following day.

Investigators with the Ohio State Fire Marshal’s Office determined the cause of the fire to be accidental.