The Smithtown Library in Long Island, New York, suffered catastrophic flooding on August 19, 2024, after a historic storm dumped nearly 11 inches of rain on Suffolk County. 

The library’s lower level was inundated with floodwaters, which broke through walls and windows, destroying thousands of books, computers, and the facility’s Richard H. Handley Collection of Long Island Americana—housing invaluable historical documents, including papers signed by Thomas Jefferson.

The scene in the aftermath was one of devastation, with books, mud, and debris floating in up to 10 feet of water. Efforts to recover the priceless artifacts are underway, with specialists from Detroit working to salvage what they can through freezing and restoration processes.

Suffolk County and New York State have declared a state of emergency, opening the door for federal assistance to help the library rebuild. However, full restoration may take years, with the library remaining closed for the foreseeable future.

Reuters was able to confirm the location from the building which match file and official website imagery.

The date was verified by the timestamp seen on the footage.