Chelan Library to move into larger temporary location

CHELAN — NCW Libraries will move Chelan Library services into a larger temporary location later this month while structural repairs continue at the city-owned library building.

The current lobby pop-up at the Chelan Public Library will close Aug. 21. An expanded temporary library will open Aug. 31 at 503 E. Highland Ave., Suite 207, inside The HUB: Lake Chelan Business Center, formerly the Chelan Hospital.

The temporary location is expected to serve Chelan-area residents through the end of 2026.

The larger space will allow the library to expand its browsing collection, provide additional public computers and resume library programs. It will also include seating for patrons and staff.

“The lobby pop-up kept the doors open, and we’re proud of that,” Chelan Library Area Manager Nat Heck said. “This new space is modest but functional and will allow us to better serve our community while the City manages repairs on the library building.”

Hours at the temporary location will be 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 to 6 p.m. Mondays; 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 to 5 p.m. Tuesdays and Wednesdays; 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 to 5 p.m. Thursdays; and 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 to 4:30 p.m. Fridays.

The Chelan Library closed in October 2025 for an interior renovation developed with input from nearly 200 community members. The work is part of NCW Libraries’ $10 million Reimagining Spaces Project, which includes $591,609 for the Chelan Library.

During construction, crews discovered hidden water damage affecting structural elements of the nearly 100-year-old building, prompting NCW Libraries and the City of Chelan to pause the renovation while repairs were addressed.

The city approved a $150,000 budget amendment in March for the structural work, and state Rep. Mike Steele secured an additional $20,000 through a direct state appropriation.

The city later sought proposals for the repairs, but the single bid received was significantly above the project budget. NCW Libraries subsequently facilitated a meeting between city staff and the contractor to review the scope of work.

NCW Libraries said vacating the building during additional exploratory testing and repairs will help reduce project expenses. Once the city completes the structural work, the library district plans to finish the interior renovation.

The renovated Chelan Library is expected to reopen in 2027.

Updates and additional information are available at www.ncwlibraries.org/chelan.

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