The Timberland Regional Library (TRL) has approved a contract with Schwiesow Construction, of Centralia, to construct a 3,400-square-foot library designed by Aetta Architects on a 1-acre site in Randle.
“The East Lewis County library building is a testament to TRL’s commitment to provide modern, accessible and innovative library services to the communities within their district and marks a historic moment as it is the first brand new library building to be erected in the region in two decades,” TRL stated in a news release.
Key features of the new building include:
• Size: The new library will span 3,400 square feet with an open concept providing ample space for a diverse collection of books, multimedia resources and community gathering areas.
• Location: The future library will be on U.S. Highway 12 within walking distance of White Pass Elementary and Jr/Sr High Schools.
• Design: The design includes a four-season glass meeting room space that opens into the library to allow for additional room for large programs or events to foster a sense of community and encourage lifelong learning.
• Drive-thru window: To serve patrons on the move, there will be a drive-thru window to pick up holds and return materials, as well as a quick stop area inside to use the computer or printer, or to check out library materials.
• New children and teens areas: The new children's area will have ample room for exploring, family time, and space for parents to relax while their children are playing, reading, or attending a story time or program. An area for teens will provide a fun and vibrant space for teens to play video games, hang out, or quietly study or read.
• Accessibility: The space will have plenty of comfortable seating, low shelving for displays and quick access to the newest and latest books and materials.
• Expanded access: The new library will offer expanded access hours to allow for self-service after hours and on weekends outside of normal library hours.
• Community engagement: The new library is designed to be a community hub, offering versatile spaces for meetings, events, and programs for patrons of all ages.
“We really care about our smaller communities, our outlying communities, and this is just going to be a great facility for the people in far East Lewis County, and particularly in Randle,” said Hal Blanton, member at large, Lewis County, on the Timberland Regional Library Board of Trustees.
"We are thrilled the TRL Board of Trustees voted to approve the construction to the new Mountain View Timberland Library, the first new library in 26 years! This approval is a testament to our commitment to meeting the evolving needs of our community. We look forward to providing an exceptional library experience that will benefit generations to come," said TRL Executive Director Cheryl Heywood.
A virtual groundbreaking will be held on Facebook Live in February with construction set to start shortly after.
TRL anticipates the grand opening of the new facility in December of 2024.
More information and ongoing updates on the project can be found on the New Mountain View Library Page on Timberland Regional Library’s website.
To be added to an email list to receive email updates on the new library, email communications@trl.org.
