Photo by: Ellie Chambers

Recently, Loon Lake Library broke ground on a new, modern facility as part of the Stevens County Libraries Legacy Projects. The new library, expected to open in 2025, will feature expanded space and resources. Fundraising continues to support this essential project.

The Loon Lake Library is set for a significant upgrade as part of the broader Stevens County Libraries Legacy Projects. These projects, aimed at enhancing library services across the county, include building new libraries in Loon Lake and Hunters and renovating libraries in Northport, Chewelah, and Colville. The initiative responds to the growing need for modernized spaces that offer community meeting rooms, technology access, and expanded services to foster education and lifelong learning.

On August 22, the Loon Lake Library celebrated a significant milestone with a ceremonial groundbreaking event at its new location, 3988 WA-292 in Loon Lake. Community members gathered to witness the start of construction on the 5,000-square-foot facility, which will replace the current library built in 1974, which has faced spatial limitations, outdated infrastructure, and accessibility challenges. The Friends of Loon Lake Library provided root beer floats for the event, adding to the momentous occasion.

Before the groundbreaking, significant efforts were made by local organizers and the Libraries of Stevens County to prepare for the project. In April 2024, a community meeting was held to discuss the proposed plans, followed by the project going out for bid in May 2024. A key focus was raising the necessary funds to bring the project to life. Funding was secured through a grant from the State of Washington Library Capital Improvement Program, Community Development Block Grant program, private donations, and community contributions, reflecting strong community backing with over $1,878,000 raised, about 60% of the total goal for the Loon Lake Library project.

The new library will include a large community meeting room, a dedicated children’s area, and modern technology resources, reflecting the evolving needs of the Loon Lake community. The updated facility will provide space for traditional library services and host community events, classes, and technology-driven programming that can enhance local economic development and educational opportunities. There will also be enhancements like an outdoor patio, new children’s furniture, and flexible shelving.

“The Friends of Loon Lake Library are excited to play an integral role in the fundraising campaign for the new library!,” said Holly Shamberger, spokesperson for the Friends of Loon Lake Library. “This will be the first library built in our county with modern library needs in mind.”

With construction set to be completed between the summer and fall of 2025, key steps are still ahead, such as additional fundraising. Individuals are encouraged to support the project by making tax-deductible donations via Libraries of Stevens County Foundation at loscfoundation.org and spreading awareness. The vision for the new Loon Lake Library is one of a vibrant community hub, offering resources and opportunities that will serve the area for generations to come.

Sources:

• Libraries of Stevens County Foundation. “Libraries of Stevens County Legacy Project.” Libraries of Stevens County Foundation – Investing in Libraries. Investing in Stevens County., loscfoundation.org. Accessed 23 August 2024.
• Libraries of Stevens County. “Building Better Libraries – Challenge Grant.” Libraries of Stevens County, thelosc.org/lcip. Accessed 23 August 2024.