Water service line break closes library

MILLERTON — The NorthEast-Millerton Library closed its doors on Wednesday, Sept. 5, as a result of a water service line break that left the library without adequate water.

The recent issue with the water main began around the last week of August when water pressure started to decline. By Tuesday, Sept. 4, the pressure had diminished to the point where library staff were unable to flush the toilets. 

Since the health department requires the building to have an operating public bathroom, the staff notified the Millerton Water Department and closed its doors from Wednesday, Sept. 5, through Thursday, Sept. 6.

While it’s been suspected that the water line’s galvanized steel was perforated over time, Village Highway Supervisor Coleman Lawrence said the cause can’t be determined until the water main has been dug up. The Village Water Department planned to dig up the water main on Monday, Sept. 10, but had to postpone the work due to the rain. After checking with the New York State Department of Transportation, the department will set to work on the water main at a later date. 

The North East Fire District hooked a hose to the spigot behind the library to give the building accessible water. The library re-opened its doors for business on Friday, Sept. 7, at 11 a.m. and by noon, staff reported that the water was functioning in the building.

“It was amazing; they’re a life saver,” said NorthEast-Millerton Library Director Rhiannon Leo-Jameson.