Manson Public Library to temporarily close for interior updates

MANSON — The Manson Public Library will close temporarily starting Monday, May 19, for interior updates. The library is expected to reopen in late summer.

“We are excited to reimagine our library space according to community priorities including additional seating, flexible space, and maximizing the incredible views of Lake Chelan,” said Cindy Simmons, Manson Branch Librarian.

The project is part of the Reimagining Spaces Project, a $10 million effort by NCW Libraries to update the interiors of all branch libraries. The updates are intended to make library spaces safe, welcoming, and flexible to better meet community needs.

As part of the planning process, Simmons and the NCW Libraries Facilities team conducted community outreach over the winter to gather input from local residents. Outreach efforts included kiosks at the Polar Plunge, the local grocery store, and the library. Presentations were also made at meetings with Manson Growers, a local church, and a parent support committee within the school district. Feedback was collected from more than 350 community members and was used to guide the design of the updated space.

The Manson branch will receive new flooring, paint, electrical work, shelving, and furniture. Features will include mobile shelving, study pods, a self-checkout kiosk, and a flexible children’s area.

The project will also include upgrades to the building’s entryway to meet ADA accessibility standards. This portion of the work is funded through two grants awarded to the Manson Public Library Board.

During the closure, patrons are encouraged to use the Chelan Public Library. More information is available at www.ncwlibraries.org/manson or on the Manson Library’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/mansonlibrary.