It's been a tough semester for the Michael Schwartz Libary at Cleveland State University after a water-related incident shut down parts of Rhodes Tower early in the semester. 

The CSU administration evacuated the tower on Feb. 11 after a water main break that affected the fire sprinkler system across the entire building. Due to the rapid action of the Division of Hospitality and Facility Services after what the administration called a "substantial water leak," services were restored to the first floor, and the Michael Schwartz Library was mostly reopened.

The emergency and clean up crews were able to salvage what could have been a disaster, not only for the tower, but more importantly for the students it serves.

“Within a span of just a few days, the first floor reopened to students while construction crews began repairing extensive water damage," said Scott Vines, director of the Michael Schwartz Library. "Currently, only the first floor is operating with limited access, as the upper levels of the library remain active during renovations.”

The closure was triggered when a water main broke between the walls of Rhodes Tower and Rhodes West. The break triggered a flood on the first floor causing extensive water damage, including in areas that housed computers and other technology students regularly use.

“The first floor is currently and partially accessible to students while repairs continue throughout the building," Vines said. "The remaining floors are operating at full potential as construction crews work to address water damage and complete renovations.”

Rhodes Tower

Rhodes Tower was built in 1971, but has long standing structural problems and asbestos concerns which have limited its use, prompting an ongoing debate whether to restore the building or replace it. 

In 2024, the university transferred ownership to Euclid Avenue Development Corporation as part of a proposed $86 million renovation plan. The plan then included converting part of the tower into student housing, but that appears to no longer be the case.

“There are no plans to turn Rhode Tower into student housing,” Vine said. “The focus is on making updates that improve the space for students overall.”

“The renovations are intended to enhance comfort, accessibility and overall functionality within the library," Vines said.

Students who need computer access may use personal laptops in designated work cubicles on the second and third floor of the library. Additional computer labs are available on the third floor of the Music and Communication building and the first floor of Berkman Hall.

Although access to parts of the building remains restricted, university officials said students should take advantage of alternative resources and services while parts of the tower and library remain closed for repairs.