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Ocean County Library Evacuated, Hazmat Units Respond

The main branch of the Ocean County Library in Toms River was evacuated and closed Thursday afternoon because of a hazardous materials incident, police said.

Ocean County Library in Toms River

Ocean County Library in Toms River

Photo Credit: Google Maps

A malfunctioning backup battery for the Washington Street library's computer system caused noxious odors that triggered a hazmat response, Toms River police said.

"Earlier this afternoon there was an odor in the basement that turned out to be a battery malfunction issue," police announced on Twitter.

The building was evacuated as a precautionary measure and will be closed for the rest of Thursday, police said.

About 130 staff and library customers were escorted out. No injuries were reported.

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