Insect Infestation Closes Royal Oak Library After DVD Return

In an unexpected turn of events, the public library in Royal Oak, Michigan, found itself dealing with more than just overdue books this past weekend. The suburban Detroit facility was forced to close its doors on September 22, 2024, following the discovery of multiple insect species in a returned DVD case.

The incident unfolded when staff members opened a DVD case from the library's drop box, only to find it teeming with various bugs, including some capable of flight. The library promptly took to social media to inform the public about the situation, stating, "It appeared to be multiple species of bugs, but we aren't sure."

Immediate action was taken to contain the potential infestation. Library staff swiftly locked the book drops and transferred all items to a garage, sealing them in bags as a precautionary measure. The DVD in question had been returned sometime between the library's closing on Friday evening and its opening on Saturday morning.

Sandy Irwin, the library director, approached the situation with a touch of humor, quipping, "I'm a librarian, not a pest control professional, but I will look up 1,000 types of bugs." This lighthearted response showcases the resilience and adaptability of library staff in the face of unusual challenges.

"I'm a librarian, not a pest control professional, but I will look up 1,000 types of bugs."

The Royal Oak Public Library, established in 1914, has been serving the community for over a century. Its current building, which opened in 1962, is a cornerstone of the city's cultural landscape. This incident, while disruptive, highlights the diverse challenges faced by public institutions in maintaining their facilities and services.

Royal Oak, with a population of approximately 59,000 as of 2020, is known for its vibrant downtown area and rich cultural heritage. The city, incorporated as a village in 1891 and as a city in 1921, derives its name from a large oak tree near the land survey starting point. It has a strong commitment to historic preservation, with several designated historic districts that contribute to its unique character.

The library closure comes at a time when Royal Oak is preparing for its annual Arts, Beats & Eats festival, which attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors. This event, along with the city's thriving arts scene, including the Royal Oak Music Theatre, underscores the community's resilience and cultural vibrancy.

As the library awaits the arrival of pest control experts, scheduled for September 23, 2024, it serves as a reminder of the unexpected challenges that public institutions may face. The incident also highlights the importance of proper care and maintenance of borrowed materials.

Royal Oak's diverse economy, mix of small businesses and larger corporations, and commitment to environmental initiatives, including a comprehensive recycling program, demonstrate the city's adaptability in the face of various challenges. The library's swift response to this unusual situation reflects the community's proactive approach to problem-solving.

As the city known for its walkable neighborhoods, tree-lined streets, and inclusive atmosphere prepares to reopen its beloved library, residents can take pride in their community's ability to handle unexpected situations with grace and humor.