Library possibly closed until fall

June 23, 2022

Snyder mayor says city can’t repair library A/C in summer heat

The Snyder Public Library was forced to close its doors in early to mid-May because the city has not been able to repair the air conditioner. The system has been having problems for several summers, compounded by heat gain from an unrepaired hole in the ceiling, which was a result of storm damage over one year ago.

Andrew’s Heat and Air checked the unit in mid-May and said a complete new unit would be required. Due to delays in communicating with Andrew’s Heat and Air, a quote for repairs has not been obtained.

Jen Stouder represented the Friends of the Snyder Public Library at the Monday City Council Meeting to attempt to find out what could be expected in regards to repairs.

Mayor Rodney Bartlett said that Andrew’s Heat and Air was supposed to be getting them a quote so that they could get some idea of whether they want to go with them or try to find another company to provide the service more quickly for a comparable price.

The council indicated that they would prefer to wait until the A/C is repaired before fixing the hole in the ceiling.

When asked how long it might be, Mayor Bartlett said, “I probably wouldn’t expect anything before fall unless you see a cold front coming up. He (Andrew’s) said he’s three weeks behind and he told me if we decide to do it and he ordered it, the first cold front that came up he would try to put us in there but he wasn’t making any promises.”

Bartlett said Andrew’s Heat and Air was not willing to work in the attic until temperatures were lower, although concerns were expressed about the community not having a library for the entire summer. The library usually has good participation in summer children’s programs and also serves as an option for people in need to escape the heat.

The City of Snyder owns the library building and is responsible for upkeep and utilities. The city also covers the expense of a part time employee who has reported that she is suddenly out of a job and only able to receive minimal unemployment benefits.

The Friends of the Snyder Public Library oversees day-to-day operations of the library and raises funds to cover operating expenses including copy paper, computers, books, eBooks, etc. Friends of the Library encourages citizens to contact the KCD office at 580-569-2684 or their Facebook page Snyder Public Library to share concerns and ideas for this sad situation. E-books are still available, but the library is not able to provide the other community services usually offered. WiFi is still available outside immediately in front of the building.