A possibly meaningless story that appeared yesterday in the subscription newsletter Publishers Lunch:

Anthrax Threat at Random Offices

Late yesterday an anthrax threat was received by Random House officials at their new building, leading to an evacuation of the building. The threat was aimed at the 24th floor premises of Bantam Dell. NYC Police and Fire Departments were called to scene, and heating and ventilation systems were shut down (each floor has its own system).

According to internal letter read by spokesman Stuart Applebaum, a "field test" was performed "on the substance in question, and the result was negative. More definitive results are expected Thursday morning." Bantam Dell employees were told to stay home, and other Random employees, "in the best interests os safety and precaution," were given the option of returning to work or going home (without impact on benefit days, etc.). Applebaum says, "Many people elected to leave; some are here are toiling away."

There is no detailed information exact the nature and source of the threat available yet (you’ll recall the company’s former building was the target of a prank bomb threat subsequent to 9/11). Though Applebaum notes "It struck some of us as kind of pernicious April Fool's Day prank" the company is proceeding with all caution, and expects to update employees later in the day.

We join all readers in wishing for a swift and safe resolution for all concerned.

It probably is a prank -- though I'd say there's a slight chance that someone's ticked off at a company (Bertelsmann) owned by citizens of "axis of weasels" member Germany....