The Ephrata Public Library is about to turn the page on an exciting new chapter.
Beginning Monday, August 10, the library will close temporarily as our facilities team begins a full interior remodel as part of NCW Libraries’ Reimagining Spaces Project. The NCW Libraries Board of Trustees designated $10 million of one-time funds to this project to enhance the interiors of the libraries in our district, in close partnership with the city’s and partners who own the buildings. The goal of the project is to create welcoming, flexible library spaces designed by and for the communities we serve.
The last day of service will be Saturday, August 8.
Designed by Ephrata, for Ephrata
This interior remodel didn’t start with blueprints. It started with conversations. In fall 2023, more than 600 community members shared their ideas through public meetings, surveys, and pop-up kiosks at local events. You told us what you love about your library, what wasn’t working, and what you dreamed of seeing.
The reimagined Ephrata Library reflects those priorities including:
- A dedicated community meeting space.
- Enhanced, updated areas for children and teens.
- Playful and engaging new furniture in the kids’ section.
- Quiet study and small work spaces including a study room equipped with teleservices technology for private telehealth appointments, video calls, virtual job interviews, and more.
- Fully renovated restrooms, including an ADA compliant restroom.
- All new interior paint, shelving, flooring, furniture, and energy-efficient lighting.
This project represents NCW Libraries’ investment of $631,000 in the Ephrata community. We are also grateful to our partners at the City of Ephrata, whose collaboration has been essential in bringing this project to life.
Visit the Pop-Up Library in Early September
You won’t have to go without your library for long. On Thursday, September 3, a pop-up library will open inside the library’s meeting room, with access through the front entrance. The rest of the building will be safely closed off for construction.
The pop-up library will offer:
- A browsing collection of popular titles.
- Self-service holds pick-up
- Public Computers
- A photo-copier and printer
- Self Check-Out
- Public Restrooms
We will share pop-up library hours and details soon, stay tuned!
At a later phase of construction, the pop-up library will need to close temporarily so our team can complete work throughout the building. We’ll share those dates and details well in advance.
What This Means for You
Your Holds: Once the pop up library opens on September 3, the Ephrata Library will still be a pick- up location for holds. Keep placing holds as usual!
Your Returns: The outside book drop will remain open, return items anytime.
Your Library Card: Did you know your NCW Libraries card works at all 30 NCW Libraries locations? Drop by nearby branch locations to browse their collections, borrow materials, and attend programs.
Your Programs: Library programming will continue! Join us at the Ephrata Recreation Center, 112 Basin Street SW, for Storytime on Tuesdays at 10:30AM and for Sit and Stitch on Fridays at 1:30PM. Library staff will also host a variety of programs throughout the community. Find the full schedule at ncwlibraries.libcal.com.
When Will the Library Reopen?
The remodeled Ephrata Public Library is expected to reopen in the first quarter of 2027. We can’t wait to welcome you into a space that reflects everything this community told us it needed. We’ll be sharing progress updates and photos along the way.
Follow the Ephrata Public Library on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ephratalibrary and check ncwlibraries.org/ephrata-public-library/ for the latest news.
Questions?
Call 509-754-3971 or email ephrata@ncwlibraries.orgcreate new email.
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