Society’s roof woes worsen

DES MOINES — About a month ago, the Iowa Genealogical Society launched a capital campaign to “Raise the Roof.” Now the society hopes it can replace the roof.

During the first of two major snowstorms to hit central Iowa before Christmas, significant snow buildup on the Iowa Genealogical Society Library’s roof caused leaks that have been a problem for the facility in the past. The problem worsened as the snow piled up.

“We had serious water coming down,” library volunteer Theresa Liewer said. “The ceiling tiles were missing, and you could see the roof decking up above. Then it rained for two days straight after that.”

Before the latest problems, the society board of directors approved a loan to replace the roof. The building has had numerous leak problems since the library moved in near the Iowa Statehouse in 2003.

“We love the place. It’s in a perfect location,” Liewer said. “But when the roof starts leaking, you really miss having the landlord.”

Replacing the roof will cost about $48,000; an additional $12,000 is likely to be needed for drywall work and financing charges with the bank. With only 1,600 members, finding that money won’t be easy.

A capital campaign, called “Raise the Roof,” was launched just before the major leaks began. The goal was to have the workers begin the renovation after the first of the year, Liewer said, but the blizzard slowed their schedule.

“All of the collection is covered with plastic tarps, bound from top to bottom. We’ve covered all of the microfilm and readers, as well as our computers,” Liewer said.

The library is closed for a planned holiday break. It is set to reopen Monday unless the roof deteriorates further.

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