Mesothelioma asbestos no longer a cancer threat at Indiana library

In Gary, Indiana, the Kennedy branch of the Gary Public Library System has re-opened after being closed for renovations for nearly 12 months. Local resident Thaishesherri Stone was one of the many people who turned out for the grand re-opening on Monday. "By having the library open, it gives people more options, especially if they don’t have vehicles," said Stone, who visits the library two to three times a week.

The Kennedy branch closed down for renovations last June in order to repair some damaged areas and remove asbestos. Asbestos exposure is conclusively linked to the development of mesothelioma, a rare form of cancer. Mesothelioma affects less than 3,000 Americans each year, and while there are palliative treatment methods available, including chemo, there is no known cure. The disease typically lies dormant for up to fifty years before an individual begins to suffer from mesothelioma symptoms, and the majority of patients lose their battle with this cancer in less than two years.

"This is one of the most important institutions in the city of Gary," said branch manager Brenda Moore. "The majority of our young people walk here, and a lot of people take the bus. It’s just so beautiful that people are able to walk here or take the bus and don’t have to go across town to another library."

"Literacy is one of the most important issues in America today, and for urban children, it’s especially important to have a place to go where they can get excited about reading," added local Hortance Cooper, as she worked on a math lesson with several students.

The John F. Kennedy Branch of the Gary Public Library system is open noon to 8 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and closed Sunday.