Sunday, July 17, 2011

Buffalo Branch Library Closed Thanks to Drunk Driver


Merriweather Library patrons deal with consequences of car accident. (Buffalo News, 7/16/2011)

Excerpt: “When I heard someone had crashed into that library, it was as if someone had crashed into my own home.”

The library’s function as a place for children to read and check out books, use computers and attend programs, and as a community gathering spot for adults, was disrupted after Jack Goff, 47, rear-ended another vehicle that crashed into the southeast corner of the library at 5:04 a. m. Sunday, according to Buffalo police.

The crash knocked a hole through a portion of a circular wall, disabling the library’s air conditioning and ventilation systems. Goff was charged with driving while intoxicated, vehicular assault, speeding and other charges.

Library officials soon began hearing from patrons worried about the library’s closing.

“We started to get calls on Monday, and I think it speaks volumes as to how that library is used,” said Mary Jean Jakubowski, the library system’s director. “It is a library used in a multitude of ways, and it certainly shows us that it is well loved and well needed in this community
.”

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