The first major remodel of Wenatchee Public Library in its 60-year history is set to begin later this spring!
The Friends of Wenatchee Public Library has raised just under $1.5 million to carry out the work, which will renovate the main floor of the building at
310 Douglas St. North Central Regional Library and the city of Wenatchee, which jointly own the building, are each kicking in large contributions to
the project. But much of the work is being funded by donations from the community.
“I’ve been dreaming about this for five years. It’s so satisfying now that it’s actually taking shape!”
~ Courtney Tiffany, senior branch manager for Wenatchee Public Library
Library and Friends group members are currently finalizing the design with the architects, Tiffany said. The remodel will include updated technology, a
centralized information desk, spaces for community gathering, private meetings and quiet study areas, updated restrooms, improved lighting and new
shelving.
She said the plan is for the work to start around May. Originally, the plan was to do the construction in phases while keeping the library open. But we
are now in talks to secure a location off-site so that we can speed up the process of construction.
All large summer programs will be held off site this year, many of them at Pybus Public Market.
The project should be completed by late fall.
“I am so excited we are going to have a new library this year.” ~ Courtney Tiffany
The recent Give NCW campaign raised more than $27,000 toward the project — $16,000 from the community and $11,500 from a regional impact grant from
the Community Foundation of NCW.
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