Threat that closed Ottawa Public Library branches deemed unfounded

(File Photo/CTV News Ottawa)

Ottawa police say a reported threat to public safety against the Ottawa Public Library has been deemed unfounded. The threat caused the City of Ottawa to evacuate and close all branches Friday afternoon.

The City had asked residents to stay away from libraries while the investigation was underway.

Ottawa police said a "threat to public safety" was made around 3:30 p.m.

"Ottawa Police received a call for service at approximately 3:30pm today from Ottawa Public Library, advising police that they received a threat to public safety by phone. The City of Ottawa closed all public libraries and cultural facilities as a safety precaution, per their protocols," the police service said in a tweet.

"Police responded, investigated the matter and the threat was deemed unfounded. The police investigation continues."

Ottawa Public Library Board chair Coun. Matt Luloff told CTV News Ottawa that a non-specific threat was made by telephone against the Ottawa Public Library and so, on the advice of police, all branches and adjoining facilities were evacuated.

"The Ottawa Public Library takes threats against the safety of the public very, very seriously," Luloff said. "We hope to resume services as soon as we get the all clear from police."

Luloff added that library staff are cooperating and collaborating with police as they investigate.

Barrhaven West Coun. David Hill told CTV News Ottawa he was told of a "library-wide bomb threat" as he asked constituents to stay away from the Ruth E. Dickinson library and the Walter Baker Centre. He later said that facilities would reopen where applicable.