Wilson Library equipment malfunction causes smoke, building evacuation

The Bellingham Fire Department responded to an 11:07 a.m. call today after university staff found smoke in the elevator equipment room in Wilson Library. The building was evacuated.

Facilities Management staff said the smoke was caused by an electrical relay meltdown with the elevator control panel – equipment that dates back to 1962. There was not a fire and there were no injuries. Affected areas are being ventilated. Damage is being assessed by university staff. The Wilson Library east elevator is now out of operation until further notice as repairs occur.