SEQUIM – Some significant donations this year have jumpstarted the planned renovation of the Sequim Branch Library, and construction for the project is set to begin in 2024.
During a special meeting on December 12, the North Olympic Library System (NOLS) Board of Trustees approved three resolutions recognizing generous donations to the Sequim Library Expansion and Renovation Project. Spaces and features in the plan will be named to acknowledge a $212,000 bequest from Dorothy DeLand, an $80,000 grant from the Benjamin N. Phillips Memorial Fund, and a $150,000 donation from the Friends of Sequim Library.
Dorothy DeLand had a love of gardening and was a kindergarten teacher for nearly 30 years. A new Outdoor Play Area will be named in her memory, and a tree will also be planted in her name.
The new Children’s Area inside the renovated library will be named for the Friends of Sequim Library, in recognition of their significant support.
And in January of this year, the Benjamin N. Phillips Memorial Fund awarded NOLS an $80,000 grant for the project. Based on a recent recommendation by the Fund’s administrators, the grant will go toward their LEED Silver certification. The renovated library will become much more energy efficient, with a new solar array, a landscape with native plants, they’ll filter all storm water on-site and utilize many other sustainable design features. Based on current calculations, the renovated Sequim Library will use 93% less energy than the current building.
NOLS continues to seek funds for the Sequim Library Expansion and Renovation Project. Those interested in contributing to the project can learn more at nols.org/sequim.