I contacted Campus Security to request assistance investigating a strongly dispersed burning smell that started suddenly about 8:30 p.m. and was present on all three floors causing staff and patrons to become alarmed. Security summoned the fire department to come investigate as well as Jay Johnson from Campus Police. After crawling around through things they collectively determined that they could not locate any potential fire and suggested that a belt or pulley had burned up in the ventilation system. The smell had dissipated considerably by that time and maintenance was contacted. A man from maintenance arrived at 9pm and I put him in contact with Campus Security for their updates/instructions. After speaking with them, he determined that he should call the A/C mechanic in the a.m. and left without further investigation. As of now, the smell seems to be mostly gone.