Chelan Public Library

Chelan is a tight-knit community with a strong history of support for its public library. The branch sees diverse use throughout the day from all segments of the community. Toddler story times in the morning, give way to seniors reading the paper later in the day followed by teens working on homework after school. The branch saw a significant renovation in 2013 funded through broad community support. The 7,000 square foot branch features a quiet reading room, a designated children’s area, a community stage, a separate space for public computers, and a public meeting room.

As we begin to explore updates to the interior spaces, Chelan Library is ripe for a reimagining that capitalizes on the many ways the community currently uses the space, while also providing new opportunities and resources.

Anticipated improvements to the branch include:

• New paint throughout
• Improved service point
• Updated shelving and furniture
• Partial flooring upgrades
• Private, reservable spaces

UPDATE! The NCW Libraries Reimagining Spaces team and the local Chelan staff are putting the finishing touches on the library design. The next step will be to convert the plan into construction documents and start to solicit bids for the project. We are anticipating a start for the project sometime in the Fall of 2025.

Our design was informed by over 200 members of the community who gave input at several community engagement events and through our online and in-branch survey. The community chose a mix of our Off the Grid and Retreat design directions and overwhelming saw a need for a Family Fun and Play program focus. This feedback will result in a library that can more effectively balance the needs of a variety of ages, while providing a calming and peaceful aesthetic.

Find out more about the project as a whole and how it will affect your community.