Lightning strikes Albertville Public Library, staff cat rescued from flames

ALBERTVILLE, Ala. ( WAFF ) - The community of Albertville was not spared during the May 20th tornadoes and other storms that rocked the Tennessee Valley.

A believed lightning strike is the culprit of a fire at the Albertville Public Library, which started around 11 p.m. Tuesday.

Albertville Fire and Rescue would ultimately save Max, the resident library cat, from the blaze.

The fire burned a hole through the roof of the library, spreading to the interior of the building and leaving damage to the ceiling and other items.

Library Director Tonia Blevins said it was a scary sight to see the 60-year-old building up in flames.

Albertville Fire and Rescue was able to make an entrance, save Max, and keep the fire from spreading too much.

The floors were also flooded with rainwater and water from fire hoses.

Blevins told WAFF 48 it is too soon to tell just how extensive the damage is and how much it will cost to fix it.

She said the library is home to a lot of free programs for families, and they will regroup to figure out where those will take place for the foreseeable future.

“We were about to kick off with summer reading. We are actively looking at trying to continue that programming throughout the summer, we’re just looking at options as far as where, what, and how we can do it,” Blevins said.

There was much excitement when the story hit social media over “rodent control specialist” Max. Many residents were concerned about Max’s well-being.

Blevins said he is doing just fine.

“They brought him out and he was able to get loose from [firefighters], but another employee and I were able to get him because he knew us and he was much calmer. We got him crated and he’s at my house enjoying all the belly rubs and the cat treats,” Blevins said.

Blevins said library staff are still working to gather items that can be recovered, and working to reschedule popular programs that are held throughout the year. Still, she said the community has made this process a bit easier.

“...the love that’s been coming out, questions and support, everyone looking to help the library, see where going and just support the library. City leaders have also really stepped up to help us move forward with the next steps and the outcry for Max was also just crazy,” Blevins said.

Staff will continue to share updates on the library on their Facebook page.

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