By Pepper Fisher
SEQUIM – The North Olympic Library System’s plans to build a new library in Sequim were dashed in 2018 when a tax levy put to voters failed by just 1%.
Now there’s new hope that a scaled-down expansion and remodel project could get started next year. Gov. Inslee’s proposed budget for 2021-2023 includes $10 million allocated for Library Capital Improvement Grants, and $2 million of that has been earmarked for the Sequim Library.
If project funding is approved by the Legislature, the Sequim Library will be awarded the funds to help improve critical infrastructure including expansion of the building to allow for adequate spacing of public seating and computers, expanded meeting room space, additional staff office space and more.
NOLS Director Noah Glaude says the grant would be combined with matching funds in NOLS’ capital reserves.
“So we initially set aside 1 million for the project a couple years ago and he’s continued to build on that But we anticipate there will be additional costs beyond that, and we will initiate a community fundraising effort to help continue to meet that goal.”
Using the architecture firm that designed plans for the proposed new Sequim Branch Library in 2018, NOLS was able to develop preliminary plans to expand and renovate the existing building, and you can get a look at what they’ve come up with so far at nols.org/sequimlibraryproject.
(Illustration is a preliminary artist rendering of proposal)