Peshastin Public Library to temporarily close for interior refresh

PESHASTIN—The Peshastin Public Library will temporarily close its doors on April 15 for an interior refresh as part of NCW Libraries' Reimagining Spaces Project. The library is expected to reopen in late summer with enhanced features and improved accessibility.

In 2021, the NCW Libraries Board of Trustees allocated $10.3 million for interior improvements across the library system. The Peshastin Library's refresh comes after an extensive community outreach process conducted in the summer of 2023, which included community meetings, a pop-up kiosk at the Peshastin Market, stakeholder meetings, and a survey. A total of 128 community members provided valuable input on how they would like to see the library space updated.

The design plan, developed by NCW Libraries and Library Forward, incorporates the community's feedback. Key features include an enhanced children's area, mobile shelving, flexible space, improved seating and storage, a break area for staff, and increased building accessibility. Additionally, the library will undergo an asbestos abatement process, receive new signage, and have its interior and exterior repainted.

Branch Librarian Clare Morrison is collaborating with art teacher Amber Zimmerman to create a unique art installation with Peshastin Dryden Elementary School's first graders, which will be featured in the new library space.

During the closure, library cardholders can access services, attend programs, and borrow materials at other NCW Libraries locations, including Leavenworth, Cashmere, and Wenatchee. The Mail Order Library system will also remain available for all cardholders. Holds remaining at the Peshastin Library after April 15th will be re-routed to the Cashmere Library for pickup.

Several weekly programs will continue offsite at Peshastin Dryden Elementary School, such as the Ukulele Circle, Literacy Council ESL Classes, and Hand in Hand Immigration Citizenship Study Group. Starting May 7, the NCW Libraries Bookmobile will make regular stops at the Peshastin Library parking lot on the first and third Tuesdays of each month.

The annual Ice Cream Social event is still scheduled for Saturday, July 27, with the Friends of the Peshastin Library to notify the community of any changes.

For more information about the Reimagining Spaces Project and updates on the Peshastin Library's progress, visit the NCW Libraries website and follow the Peshastin Library on Facebook.