Manson Public Library to reopen Sept. 16 after $208,000 renovation

MANSON — The Manson Public Library will reopen Sept. 16 after several months of interior renovation, unveiling a community-driven design that library leaders say reflects the town’s vision for a shared gathering space.

The $208,354 project included $184,354 allocated by NCW Libraries and an additional $24,000 raised through grants and local contributions. The Manson Community Library Board helped secure $5,000 from the Community Foundation of North Central Washington, $1,000 from Confluence Health and the Wenatchee Valley Medical Group, and matched the foundation’s grant with its own funds before donating another $13,000.

Renovations introduced new shelving, seating, and flooring, along with two study pods for meetings or quiet work. The children’s area now features flexible furniture for story times and programming. Other improvements include fresh paint, updated electrical systems, and an enhanced ADA-accessible entryway.

The library’s new look follows input from more than 300 residents who participated in surveys, meetings, and pop-up kiosks. Community members asked for the library to serve as a “community living room” with flexible, welcoming spaces. The redesign carries a “Harvest” theme, highlighted by warm colors and cozy accents.

“The Manson Library refresh shows how powerful partnerships can be in creating spaces that truly reflect and serve the community,” said Vivian Edwards, Supervising Librarian in Chelan and Manson. “We’re excited to welcome everyone back into a space designed with Manson’s values and needs at its heart”.

Edwards joined NCW Libraries in July following the retirement of Manson Branch Librarian Cindy Simmons and Chelan Branch Librarian Diedre Beltran Del Rio. She holds a Master of Library and Information Science from the University of Washington and previously worked for the Pierce County and King County library systems.

The library, located at 80 Wapato Way, plans to host a grand reopening celebration in October. Updates and photos are available on the Manson Library Facebook page and at www.ncwlibraries.org.