A courthouse and library in Brooklyn Center were evacuated Friday morning after a suspicious device was found. The buildings reopened a couple hours later, a spokeswoman for the county sheriff's office said.

Authorities evacuated the complex at 6125 Shingle Creek Pkwy. around 8 a.m. when the device was found on a bench in the lobby of the District 2 Courthouse, said spokeswoman Rebecca Gilbuena.

Law enforcement with canine dogs conducted a sweep of the building and the Minneapolis Police Department Bomb Squad examined the device, which was determined not to have been an explosive.

The road passing in front of the building, which houses a library, courthouse and an office that issues motor vehicle license tabs and renewals and other county and state services, was also closed. It reopened at 10 a.m..

"I encourage residents to always report something that just doesn't look right or causes concern. Please call 911, and let law enforcement determine if there's a threat," said Sheriff Rich Stanek.

Brooklyn Center police also were on the scene.

Tim Harlow • 612-673-7768