BELLINGHAM, Wash. — Bellingham Public Library – Central Branch Phase 1 of renovations in 2021 updated main floor seating, study areas and public amenities. Late 2026 or early 2027, Phase 2 is scheduled to continue the interior renovation project. Phase 2 is anticipated to go out to bid in late summer 2026, with construction completing by late 2027.
In addition to modernizing the children’s and teen’s spaces, opening the ground floor layout and updating staff work areas, heating, ventilation, and cooling improvements will also be updated. Updates will repair and enhance the existing system to improve overall heating and ventilation.
Library services during construction
When the Central branch closes to the public for construction (in late 2026 or early 2027), library services will continue to be offered at other Bellingham Public Library branches. Additional program and community space during construction will be accomplished through a temporary expansion of the Bellis Fair branch. Other temporary locations for story times and youth programming are still being explored.
$8.5 million in Financing
The city recently received a $3.03 million in state grant funding for the project, which, combined with $2 million in city resources and $3.5 million in private donations, fulfills the total $8.5 million project budget.
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