Noose found at Obama library

A NOOSE has been found on the construction site of

Barack Obama’s presidential library, forcing builders to pause work.

The Obama Presidential Centre in Chicago is being built in honour of the ex-US president, pictured, who was elected as the country’s first African-American leader in 2008.

His foundation described the noose – a symbol for the lynching of thousands of former slaves – as a ‘shameless act of cowardice and hate’. A statement added: ‘Our priority is protecting the health and safety of our workforce.’

The Lakeside Alliance, a group of blackowned firms that is building the centre, is offering a $100,000 (£84,000) reward for any information on the incident. A spokesman refused to comment on whether it suspects a builder on the site or how the delay will affect the work.

The Chicago Police Department said it is investigating.