HAZLETON, LUZERNE COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU) — The Hazleton Area Public Library is closed after a massive fire tore through a vacant church next door over the weekend.
St. Paul's church in Hazleton went up in flames Saturday night, drawing a third alarm response from firefighters.
The Hazleton Area Public Library sits just feet from the church, but swift response from first responders prevented any serious damage.
Man dies after motorcycle, vehicle collision
Officials say the library closure is because of smoke that entered its HVAC system, not structural damage.
"I've had text messages and emails from patrons and from our board, just you know they care and concerned. Do you need anything? Is everything ok? So the care concern from the community has been very nice and just overwhelming, almost," Hazleton Area Public Library Executive Director Michele Kushmeder told 28/22 News.
The fire remains under investigation by Pennsylvania State Police.
Crews are working to clear the air, and the library is expected to reopen within the next few days.
