Crash Closes Emerson Library

EMERSON - The Emerson Public Library has remained closed since a car crashed into the side of the historic building July 21.

“It was on a Sunday around noon. Thank God we were closed,” Emerson Public Library Director Karen Gage said.

The vehicle reportedly struck the building when the driver accidently missed her brake pedal while attempting to stop. The driver was not injured and her vehicle was not damaged.

Gage said the Emerson City Council was meeting Monday night to discuss the estimated cost of damage and develop a plan for repairs and an eventual reopening of the library. The accident created a large hole in the wall of the library and a pile of bricks outside the structure.

 “I know the city council is going over several things tonight (Monday) at their meeting and I do know it’s going to be fixable,” Gage said.

Gage said she’s hopeful the repairs can be made in a timely manner so Emerson residents aren’t left without a library for an extended period of time.

“Right now, we’re just closed. Books can be dropped off at Emerson City Hall or Spanky’s Bar and Grill in Emerson.”

Gage said she’s unaware of the exact age of the library building, but believes it was constructed in the 1800s.