Oak Bay, BC – Following the District becoming aware of the presence of dust contaminated with asbestos in an isolated area not used by the public in the Oak Bay Branch of the Greater Victoria Public Library (GVPL), the District has decided to proactively move forward with further investigation and to undertake an abatement of asbestos-containing materials in the facility. The District’s top priority is ensuring the safety of staff and the community. The District is awaiting results from the additional testing undertaken this week and will provide an update when the test results are received.   

As a result of the abatement process, the Oak Bay Branch will remain closed for up to twelve weeks. The District is working with GVPL to explore options to deliver library services at an alternative location in Oak Bay. Once an alternative location is confirmed, details will be announced. GVPL is committed to minimizing the disruption of this temporary closure for patrons.  

Patrons will not incur late fees for library items previously returned at the Oak Bay Branch. Library items on hold at the Oak Bay Branch will not expire February 6; the expiry date for items on hold will be extended to the end of February. Service alternatives for items on hold will be communicated next week. Library items can be returned to any other GVPL location, and plans are underway to install a temporary drop box to return library material at the Monterey Recreation Centre next week – see GVPL.ca for updates.  

Questions about Library services and programs should be directed to GVPL’s customer service line: 250-940-4875. Customer service staff are available Monday to Saturday between 10:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. 

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Contact 
Hayley Goodgrove 
District of Oak Bay 
hgoodgrove@oakbay.ca  
778-677-9589