From Humboldt State University’s website:

Out of an abundance of caution, Gist Hall has been closed until further notice.

All events and other activities in the building have been suspended, and there is no access to offices or classrooms. Finals are being relocated, and that schedule will be shared by email and posted on the building doors as soon as possible.

During a routine check of the building’s systems on Friday, May 10, the campus discovered the possible presence of disturbed asbestos. Testing will be conducted throughout the weekend and into Monday, and results will be available then.

Information about disturbed asbestos (pdf)

Employees who work in Gist Hall should contact their supervisor. For information during non-business hours, contact UPD Dispatch at 826-5555.

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Update 11:55 a.m.:  HSU wants to inform everyone that the play Fantastic Mr. Fox, which was schedule in Gist Hall tonight, will be moved to the North Coast Repertory Theatre in Eureka.

An email from HSU:

A big “Thank you!” to North Coast Repertory Theatre in Eureka, which has stepped up to host HSU’s presentation of Fantastic Mr. Fox this weekend.

Last night’s performance of the play was cancelled after the indefinite closure of Gist Hall at Humboldt State University. The building had to be closed, out of an abundance of caution, after the discovery of possibly disturbed asbestos.

There was concern that the entire run of Fantastic Mr. Fox would be cancelled. But NCRT came forward to help, and faculty and staff rallied to help the student performers and crew.  So the show goes on!

Fantastic Mr. Fox follows the attempts of three farmers to get rid of the fox who regularly steals food from their farms. They are outwitted at every turn, and Mr. Fox devises a plan which will ensure full stomachs for not only his family, but all his friends.

The final performance is at 7 p.m., Saturday, May 11 at NCRT (300 5th Street in Eureka). Pre-purchased tickets will be honored. Donations will be accepted at the door. As seats are available, others will be admitted.

Gist hall remains closed, and all classes and other activities in the building have been suspended. There is no access to offices or other spaces.

HSU is conducting testing in the facility this weekend, with results expected Monday. Also this weekend, plans are being developed to relocate any final exams scheduled for Gist Hall, and that schedule will be shared by campus email and posted on the building doors as soon as possible. Services and other programs in the building will also be relocated.

Employees who work in Gist Hall should contact their supervisor. For updates and information, visit humboldt.edu or call 826-INFO.