Because of a fire in the Michigan Tech Archives on Friday, the department is currently closed. The J. R. Van Pelt and John and Ruanne Opie Library at Michigan Tech will reopen at 12 p.m., Sunday, Oct. 28.
The archives are located on the garden level of the library and will remain closed until further notice. The source of the fire is unknown and is currently under investigation by the Michigan State Police fire investigator.
Most of the damage was caused by water from a zoned sprinkler release, which was activated automatically when the fire was detected. Both the Houghton Fire and Police Departments responded. The most fragile documents have been removed from the area to cold storage, and work is ongoing to assess the damage and begin restoration.
“Currently, we are working through our disaster plan to address the most immediate needs to preserve and restore these unique documents,” said Erik Nordberg, University archivist.
Researchers and professionals who need access to the area can call the archives office at 906-487-2505 or email copper@mtu.edu. For all other library information and services, call 906-487-2508 or email library@mtu.edu.
Except for the closed garden level, the library will maintain regular hours after it opens on Sunday.