Columbia Public Library addresses bat problem

Officials at the Columbia Public Library confirmed to ABC 17 News Thursday that thereare bats inside the library.

This comes just weeks after the library had to temporarily close for a flea problem.

A concerned viewer contacted ABC 17 News Wednesday.

Library spokeswoman Mitzi St. John told ABC 17 News there have been several bat sightings in the building over the last week.

“Every once in a while we’ll see one in the building,” she said. “It’s a taller building within the community. Bats like heights.”

Officials have found the point of entry for the bats near the building’s downspouts.

Those holes have beenplugged, and the library said it is working with a professional removal company.

“I think there’s health issues related to this, bat droppings potentially, potentially getting bit,” said one concerned library guest.

ABC 17 News contacted the Boone County Health Department, but the department said it only addresses bat issues if they are contacted. It said the library has not contacted them about bats.

St. John said the library has tested bats for rabies in the past when they were found in the building, but those bats tested negative.