Portland State University estimates $750K in damages to library during occupation

PORTLAND, Oregon — Portland State University estimates it will cost roughly $750,000 to repair Millar Library, which was damaged by a group of pro-Palestinian protesters who occupied the building for several days.

The university gave the update Tuesday morning, but noted that the number is an initial estimate and said it could “increase or decrease by about $125,000.” The cost does not include expenses for replacing and repairing any damaged technology or furniture.

Portland State has insurance and is seeking a claim to offset some of the costs.

Among the vandalism, the library’s fire alarm system was damaged. Many walls, along with some pillars and areas of the ground, were spray-painted with messages. Some computers, TVs, windows and interior glass walls will need to be replaced. Library staff had feared for a collection of valuable items — including rare books and records that have not been digitized — but they were found untouched. 

Administrators don’t expect the library to reopen until the beginning of the 2024-2025 school year.