Public library open again after treatment for fleas

The Daniel Boone Regional Library is once again open to the public after being closed for three days due to a flea infestation.

A library spokesperson said a third treatment to exterminate the fleas on Friday was successful. It reopened at 9 o’clock Saturday morning.

The library was first temporarily closed down Wednesday afternoon, and then all day Thursday.

Library staff said they called exterminators, who confirmed the presence of fleas.

“We went ahead and scheduled a time they could treat the building,” said Mitzi St. John, a library spokesperson.

Orkin exterminators sprayed carpet and upholstery Wednesday evening, as well as Thursday morning.

They said they don’t know for sure where the fleas came from, but they aren’t surprised they appeared in the library.

“This time of year we do get a lot of calls for fleas and what have you,” said Orkin exterminator Michael Ayers. “It’s common.”

St. John said fleas and other pests aren’t a problem at the library, but Orkin does already treat the building regularly.

Exterminators told ABC 17 they will be back to do a follow up inspection to make sure the pests are dead.

People drove in and out of the parking lot Thursday since they didn’t know it was closed.

Many of them said while they don’t like that the library had fleas, they’re glad it took immediate action to get rid of them.

“This incident here will not deter me from coming to the library,” said Michael Cornado. “It’s unfortunate it happened yesterday but it’s not a major issue so I look forward to coming back to the library tomorrow.”

St. John said they do hope to be open for regular business Friday.

Two public meetings Thursday night will go on as planned in the library’s lobby, and author Tim O’Mara will still speak as well.

His event will be outside the library in the garden.