Burned Books Valued at Half Million Dollars

The fire that burned Gary Hoover’s home and private library in downtown Flatonia last week destroyed an estimated half-million dollars worth of books.

Flatonia Police Chief Lee Dick said the estimated $500,000 in books included several rare and collectible titles. Additionally, Fayette County Appraisal District listed a market value for the property and building at $474,700

Dick, a certified fire investigator, is investigating the fire with assistance from the State Fire Marshal’s Office. Dick said the State Fire Marshal team that came to Flatonia last week included a K-9 name “Roxy.”

“Their expertise is greatly appreciated,” he said.

“The investigation is ongoing at this time,” Dick said. “The extent of damage to the building and the unusual amount of debris, largely as a result of the books that burned, makes this an unusually challenging scene.

“Lots of books provided fuel for the fire,” he added.