The Old Tompkins County Public Library is set to be demolished Monday, amid public outcry.

A petition was signed by around 40 local businesses. They’re urging the city to delay the demolition of the “asbestos-contaminated” building.

They argue the destruction of the building could have a major impact on their holiday sales and that the demolition and noise could affect traffic. They also argue the potential for asbestos exposure could drive customers away.

In October, the developer Travis Hyde told Spectrum News the city has already condemned the building and water would be used during demolition to control exposure.

“Our most immediate concern is for the Christmas holiday season of course,” said Ithaca property owner Suzy Kramer. “And the fact that this is about the worst timing it could be. The developer has owned the building for a year and we were expecting this to happen much sooner and certainly not during this time of year.”