Ocean Park library to close to complete remodel

As construction nears completion on the expansion project that began in July at the Ocean Park Timberland Library, the building will close for approximately three weeks beginning Saturday, November 24 to finish the renovation. The library is expected to re-open to the public on Tuesday, December 18. The outdoor book drop will stay open during the library closure.

The project includes an addition to the back (south) side of the library expanding the interior space from 3,240 to 5,292 square feet. The highlights of the project will be new and larger quiet reading areas, a separate teen space, a larger children’s area, more computers, additional shelving, lighting for the shelving and new furnishings, carpet, and paint.

Patrons are encouraged to use the following neighboring Timberland libraries and district services:

• Ilwaco Timberland Library; 158 1^st Ave. N, Ilwaco; (360) 642-3908
• Naselle Timberland Library; 4 Parpala Road, Naselle; (360) 484-3877
• TRL website: www.TRL.org. From their own Internet computers, people can access their library accounts and the catalog of library materials; place holds on items they wish to borrow; use TRL’s extensive online resources for research, study and leisure activities. All 27 Timberland library locations and their hours and programs are also on the website.
• Reference Librarians: People can ask for information on any topic. On the TRL website, click on “Ask a Librarian,” or telephone reference librarians at 800-562-6022.

Project cost and funding

Holmberg Company from Kirkland, Washington, won the construction contract with a bid of $579,000 plus tax. Since Ocean Park is an unincorporated community, the library is a TRL-owned facility. The cost is paid primarily by the library district. The Friends of the Ilwaco and Ocean Park Timberland Libraries have generously pledged $70,000 for some new shelving and new lighting that will be added to existing shelving units as well as new shelving components.

Ocean Park’s libraries

The current Ocean Park Timberland Library building is 27 years old. A library in Ocean Park began over 125 years ago as a small collection of books moving from house to house. By 1940 the library found a permanent home at Ocean Park Elementary School. In 1968, the library became part of the Timberland Regional Library District.