Smithtown library remains badly damaged following historic storm
Massive flooding destroyed the building's lower level, and left several historical Long Island documents in danger of being lost forever.
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More than a week after historic flooding, the smell of mold in the basement of the Smithtown Library building is overwhelming.
New video obtained by News 12 shows the devastation as floodwaters burst through a wall and rushed through the entire bottom floor, destroying equipment, books and more.
It's also where the Long Island History Collection was kept, the home to many historical documents, including the town deed and letters signed by the likes of Thomas Jefferson.
Many of those relics have been sent out to be salvaged, with the hopes that many of them can be saved, but not all.
Library officials estimate there is at least $10 million in damages and do not expect the basement level to reopen until early 2025.
Those looking to donate to the library in their recovery efforts, can do so here.
