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Goldendale Community Library remodel

Updated September 17, 2018: The remodeled library is open! Please drop in, take a look, and check out some materials from our refreshed collection.

 

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Why remodel?

Our wonderful Goldendale Community Library, an original Carnegie Library, is 104 years old and was last remodeled over 30 years ago. Through generous donations, we're giving our building updates that will carry it forward into its next century of life, while retaining and renewing its historic features.

What will the remodel include?

After holding public meetings in the fall of 2016, we worked out our design, with the goal of maintaining the classic Carnegie Library character while improving flow and usability. Here's the plan:

  • New furniture, flooring and paint
  • New LED lighting and energy efficient windows
  • Accessibility upgrades
  • Remodeled restrooms
  • New teen space and enclosed study rooms
  • More gathering space and comfortable seating areas
  • New shelving on the second floor and in the children's area
  • Refreshed collection of library materials
  • Additional internet computers
  • Reorganized staff areas and service desk
  • Exterior repairs

How is the project being funded?

This $1 million project will be funded from three different sources:

  • The Wilma Olsen Fund. From an original donation of just over $100,000, the fund has grown to over $500,000 thanks to careful investment. After discussions with the donor's family, we plan to use this money to refurbish the second floor.
  • A bequest from Shirley Ann Iams. Shirley was a Goldendale native who ended her decades-long career as a librarian with Seattle Public Library. When she passed away on October 6, 2016, she left the Goldendale library a sizable bequest totaling nearly $180,000 to date. We'll use this bequest to remodel the children's area.
  • FVRL capital reserve. FVRL has money set aside for capital projects, and we'll use some of this reserve for infrastructure repair: upgrading windows and lighting, replacing the concrete steps, and improving the staff area in the basement.

What is the remodel schedule?

Friday, April 13: Last day the library will be open
Monday, April 23: Library services become available at Goldendale City Hall
Friday, August 31: Last open day at the temporary location at Goldendale City Hall
Saturday, September 15: Grand reopening of the remodeled library! The new hours are 10–6 Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, and 10–8 Wednesday.

How can I use the library during the remodel?

Use one of these locations April–August:

Goldendale City Hall
1103 S Columbus Ave
Monday–Friday, 10 am–6 pm, April 23 through August 31
Pick up holds, return items, check out Lucky Day books and other materials, read magazines and newspapers, or use library computers, printers and Wi-Fi.

Father's House Fellowship
207 S Klickitat Ave
We'll be holding library programs and events here April 23 through August.

Goldendale/Klickitat Bookmobile
The bookmobile will continue its normal runs. See the full bookmobile schedule for all the details.

What about book groups and storytimes?

Book discussion groups will continue to meet on second Mondays at 11 am and 6 pm in the Council Chambers at City Hall.

Storytime will be held on Wednesdays at 11 am from June 20 through August 8 in the Council Chambers at City Hall.

Will there be a Summer Reading program this year?

Yes! We still have prizes for readers of all ages and a full schedule of special programs at Father's House Fellowship. Sign up between June 15 and August 15 online, at the City Hall location, on the bookmobile, or at any Fort Vancouver Regional Library.

Email update

  • June 2018 - including Summer Reading performers and more

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