New inspection reports by Cavins Disaster Response Group reveal mold still present in the Norman Public Library Central with some areas worsening.
A Jan. 7 report revealed that while all common areas remain under condition 1 — meaning normal fungal ecology typically found in unproblematic spaces — mold spore counts have increased in the stairwell and Oklahoma Room, both of which have worsened over time and with changing weather conditions.
According to the report, the investigation confirmed airborne microbial growth in the problem areas. The inspection found the mold in the building to be toxic and samples indicated active growth in problem areas. Most areas of concern were also affected by water leakage and intrusion.
The report also includes a visual inspection performed on Jan. 3. The visual inspection team used flashlights, UV lights, olfactory senses and measured humidity and temperature around the building.
The report recommends addressing water intrusion and mold growth as soon as possible to prevent the issue from spreading to common areas.
“It is highly likely that the remediation company will discover additional mold, which may require further testing and adjustments to remediation protocols,” the report states.
In September, Cavins Group conducted a mold inspection and found Paecilomyces spores in the building. Paecilomyces is a pathogen that can cause severe human infections. The group recommended a professional mold remediation company should be hired to address the mold growth.
In November 2023, the city hired Cavins Group to investigate water leak issues from Norman Public Library Central’s roof. Cavins Group discovered traces of mold, including black mold and fusarium, on each level of the facility.
Later that month, it was announced the library would close temporarily while Cavins Group assessed the facility. The Norman Public Library Central was closed indefinitely in April when the damage was found to be "extensive and severe."
This story was edited by Ana Barboza. Riley McDaniel and Mary Ann Livingood copy edited this story.
