The Warren-Newport Public Library in Gurnee has once again reopened after it was evacuated Tuesday following its at least third bomb threat in less than two weeks.
The library abruptly announced around 4:15 p.m. Tuesday that it was closed and all programs were canceled for the day due to an emergency.
The library later confirmed Wednesday evening that it was due to a bomb threat.
A statement said the Warren-Newport Public Library has received multiple bomb threats delivered by email and other electronic methods of communication in recent weeks.
In each instance, library staff worked with the Gurnee Police Department to evaluate the threat and clear the building before resuming operations.
The Warren-Newport Public Library is not the only library in the Chicagoland area to be targeted by bomb threats recently. Officials said they expect the threats to continue.
Library staff said they will continue to work with the Gurnee Police Department to analyze and assess each threat and “respond in a way that prioritizes the safety of our customers and staff, and when possible, minimizes disruption of the important services we proudly provide the residents of Gurnee.”
“While this has been a challenging time, we are grateful for our amazing staff who have responded to these threats with the utmost professionalism and continue to serve our patrons under these stressful circumstances,” the library’s statement said.
“We are grateful for our supportive Library Board, who are dedicated to doing everything in their power to support our staff. We are grateful to our partners at the Gurnee Police Department for the amazing response and support they have provided us with during this time. And finally, we are grateful to you: our incredible community, for the support you show us on a regular basis through your comments, emails, and regular patronage,” the statement added.
The two prior bomb threats made toward the library occurred around 6 p.m. on August 17 and 12:30 p.m. on August 21.
Explosive detection canines were called and scoured the building with no results in each instance.
Police say an investigation into the origin of the threats is ongoing.
The FBI Chicago told Lake and McHenry County Scanner they could not confirm or deny whether they are involved in the investigations but said they take threats to the public “very seriously” and often work closely with local law enforcement.