Chelan library repairs move closer as city, NCW Libraries identify budget solution

CHELAN — After months of uncertainty surrounding structural repairs to the historic Chelan Library, city officials and NCW Libraries say they have identified a promising path forward that could keep the project on budget and move construction ahead.

The update comes after the City of Chelan completed the competitive bidding process required for public projects earlier this month. Although only one contractor submitted a bid, that proposal exceeded the project's available budget. Rather than rebidding the work, city staff, NCW Libraries and the contractor met to review the project scope and identify potential cost savings. According to both organizations, those discussions have been productive, and work is now underway to finalize a repair plan that can be completed within the existing budget.

"It's important for public agencies to spend taxpayer dollars responsibly, and that is exactly what this process reflects," NCW Libraries Associate Director of Community Libraries Tim Dillman said in the announcement. "Every step, from the assessment, the funding, the formal bid process, and now to this collaboration with the contractor, is about doing this project the right way, following the law, and protecting the public's investment in this building."

The Chelan Library has been closed since October 2025, when crews renovating the interior discovered extensive hidden water damage affecting structural components of the nearly century-old building. The interior renovation was paused so those repairs could take priority.

The renovation is part of NCW Libraries' districtwide Remaining Spaces Project, a $10 million initiative that includes nearly $592,000 dedicated to the Chelan branch.

Earlier this year, the Chelan City Council approved a $150,000 budget amendment to fund the structural work. An additional $20,000 in state funding secured through a legislative appropriation by Rep. Mike Steele will help cover design and engineering costs.

While the structural repairs remain unfinished, other improvements have already been completed, including upgrades to the building's HVAC, fire protection and sprinkler systems. NCW Libraries has also purchased and stored furnishings, shelving, flooring and other materials for the planned interior renovation, allowing that phase of the project to move forward quickly once structural work is complete.

The temporary pop-up library currently operating in the building's lobby will close once construction begins for safety reasons. NCW Libraries said it is seeking a new temporary location in Chelan that would provide expanded services, including additional library materials, public computers and regular programming. The organization said details will be announced once a site is confirmed. In the meantime, library services continue through the lobby location, outreach programs at the Chelan Senior Center, the Manson Library and the district's online collection.

Andrew Simpson: 509-433-7626 or andrew@ward.media