We’ve heard how much you miss the Chelan Library, and honestly, we love that. It says everything about how important this space is to our community. We miss it too! We are working hard alongside the City of Chelan to bring it back better than ever.
What started as a planned renovation quickly became something more. Once construction began, crews uncovered significant hidden water damage, something that wasn’t visible during earlier planning. In a building that’s nearly 100 years old, this kind of discovery isn’t unusual. But, it does change the path forward.
Rather than moving ahead and ignoring the issue, the City and NCW Libraries made the shared decision to pause and fix the problem right away.
That means addressing the structural damage to the flooring and framing. This is complex work that requires careful planning, additional funding, and the right construction team. While that takes time, it ensures the building will be safe, stable, and ready to serve the community for decades to come.
Behind the scenes, a tremendous amount of progress has been made. HVAC upgrades and fire and sprinkler improvements are complete. New furniture, shelving, lighting, and flooring have been ordered, received, and are being stored in our admin building until they are ready to be installed. In March, the City secured funding for the repairs and is preparing to bring in a contractor so structural work can begin as soon as possible.
This project is truly a partnership. The City of Chelan and NCW Libraries are working closely to protect and invest in a beloved community resource. At the same time, library staff continue to serve the community through pop-up services, Storytimes, and tech help around town.
We know the big question is: when will the library reopen? While we don’t have a confirmed date yet, we do know that once structural repairs are complete, the final renovation should move quickly, especially since materials are already on hand.
Thank you for your patience, your support, and your love for the library. This work is about more than repairs. It’s about ensuring Chelan has a welcoming, safe, vibrant, and resilient library for generations to come.
Library Services Continue
Although construction is on hold, Chelan Library staff continue to provide limited open hours in the library lobby as well as services and programs throughout the community, ensuring residents have consistent access to library resources, technology support, and early-learning opportunities. Community members are also encouraged to visit the nearby Manson Library for programs, browsing, and more. Library staff will be attending the Earth Day Festival, the Manson Apple Blossom Festival, Chelan Pride, and the Lake Chelan Arts Festival this spring and summer.
Pop-Up Library Hours
Chelan Public Library Lobby
Monday, Wednesday, Friday
10:00 AM – 1:00 PM & 1:30 PM – 5:00 PM
Lobby Access Hours
Chelan Public Library Lobby
Tuesday & Thursday | 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM
During Lobby Access hours on Tuesdays and Thursdays, patrons can browse and borrow books, movies, and library materials. During Pop Up Library hours on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, patrons can also access public computers as well as access print, scan, and faxing services.
Drop-In Tech Help
Chelan Senior Center
10:00 AM –11:00 AM | Third Thursday of each month
April 16, May 21, June 18
Get help with devices, email, online accounts, and more.
Chelan Book Club
Chelan Fire Station Meeting Room
3:00 PM – 4:00 PM | Last Thursday of the Month
April 30
Dark Sky Storytime
Manson Bay Park
11:00 AM – 12:00 PM | April 24
Celebrate International Sky Week with stories and songs about the night sky with a special visit from a Park Ranger.
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