Damage caused by a backed up sewer line during heavy rains Tuesday will keep the Montesano Timberland Library closed through the holidays.

The sewer line was packed with paper towels which caused overflow from both restrooms out into the hallway, through the library, out the front doors, and also into the return air system.

ServPro began cleanup at the library Wednesday morning. According to a library statement, the collection is safe but the service desk was damaged.

“The walls around the restrooms will need to have sheetrock removed up to the 4-foot mark due to bacterial moisture damage,” according to the statement. “The floors will need to be taken up and repaired or sealed. Additional damages need to be assessed and a timeline will be determined based on our bid process and repair work needed.”

A date to reopen has yet to be determined. Timberland said it will provide an update Jan. 2, 2019. More information will be posted on the Facebook page and the TRL.org location page.

In the meantime, the outside book drop at Montesano will continue to be checked daily. Patrons with holds at the Montesano library can request items be moved to the Elma or Aberdeen Libraries, which will be open during normal operating hours.

For questions, call Timberland Regional Library at 800-562-6022.