Libraries in Louisiana Still Lack Power; Some Damage Reported

• State Library lacks power
• Power a problem in many public libraries
• Few details yet from New Orleans

While Hurricane Gustav did far less harm than feared, libraries in Louisiana are still recovering, many without power, and a few with damage--at least one is flooded. "As of Thursday, the State Library is still without power.  However, our Internet and servers are on a backup generator and are functional," said a message on the State Library's Louisiana Library Status Blog. 

The Executive Team is working from the house of State Librarian Rebecca Mailton. State Library officials have made direct contact with most libraries: "From what we can see, power is a major issue.  However, there is some damage at Point Coupee and East Baton Rouge libraries."

[Updated] Still, there are few details yet from the New Orleans Public Library. (The library's web site is back up, stating that facilities "will reopen as soon as possible. Staff are currently assessing the condition of each location.") 

One branch in the Jefferson Parish Library System was flooded, according to the State Library blog.Various libraries around the state have had to clear debris and trees from their grounds and some have lacked the staff to reopen so far.