Dome leaks threaten Providence city archives

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) - The Providence city archivist says leaks in City Hall's dome are threatening valuable centuries-old records. The leaks in the dome have stained the walls and have already damaged boxes of old photos, which are warped and stained from sitting in puddles. Plastic tarps covers some areas of the archive to prevent further damage. Archivist John Myers tells The Providence Journal the problem has been getting worse in the past few years. City Public Property Director Alan Sepe says the dome is structurally sound and it's very hard to pinpoint leaks, but his crew does its best. The City Council has passed a resolution calling on Mayor David Cicilline to form an archive commission to address the problem as well space shortages and record-keeping deficiencies. Information from: The Providence Journal, <a href="http://www.projo.com/" target="_blank">www.projo.com/</a> (Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)