On Monday, January 14, 2013 a significant leak developed in pipes above the general collection in the Science Library. Within an twenty minutes of notification Collection Services staff, working with Andrea Wright and facilities staff, moved 96 shelves of books to carts and sorted out approximately 100 books damaged beyond repair and 326 books that required additional attention and drying. Each book was assessed for condition and books that needed drying were moved to the Science Library reading room. Fans were strategically placed to dry them out. A plan was developed to put all of the displaced books back into LC order.

Science reserve materials were moved to the Main Library. Student workers scheduled to work in the Science Library were notified to report to work at the Main Library and many assisted with the resource recovery project.

Drying books were continuously monitored to guard against mold. Facilities repaired the leaking pipes and assisted in drying out the carpet and shelving.

Science faculty we notified of the library closure, notices were published in various outlets, such as the Library blog and the changed hours were posted the website.

Eventually 139 volumes were withdrawn from the collection due to water damage. Seventy of those volumes were chosen for replacement either in print or electronic format.

The Sanders Science Library was closed just one week from Monday, January 14- Tuesday, 22.