New Library Update
Why the delay?
Anyone who has ever worked on any project knows there are lots of unforeseen gremlins waiting to ambush your efforts. The bigger the project, or the longer you want the results to last, the truer that statement rings. For the Upper Skagit Library Board, both of these qualifiers are true.
It’s the biggest project we've ever attempted and we recognize our new building will not be a temporary location for the library, but a long-term home. Many improvements to the building were completed before the old Legion Hall was signed over to the Library District this past December, and the Board was anxious to finish up the work for the anticipated grand opening originally conceived to be this Spring. However, a previous building inspection raised a red flag that required a professional follow-up inspection of the structural integrity of the roof and ceiling.
This follow-up inspection identified that numerous leaks in the roof have caused some key roof/ceiling components to rot. These structural components need to be repaired to ensure the building’s long-term viability. To properly fix all the roof leaks, the current roof will also have to be removed and replaced. Current building codes restrict how many layers of roofing a building can have because of the extra weight involved and the building already has over the currently allowable number. The existing roof has also tested positive for asbestos which adds to that removal effort and expense. In an effort to minimize interior water damage, this will not be attempted until our drier weather season arrives.
As attractive as the insides look now, any structural issues need to be addressed before any further interior work is completed and the migration to the new facility begins. Finding qualified contractors that are willing to coordinate their efforts and perform these small, but essential tasks during their busiest time of the year has become a challenge. Compounding these issues is the time-consuming bid process required for publicly-owned buildings.
Although it might appear like no progress is being made, rest assured lots of things are going on behind the scenes to make the new library a building we can all be proud of.
Do you know any contractors?
KEEP IN TOUCH
Thurs: Closed
Fri: 10am - 5pm
Sat: 10am - 3pm
Sun & Mon: Closed
Email: info@upperskagit.lib.wa.us
Website: upperskagit.lib.wa.us
Location: 45770b Main St, Concrete, WA, USA
Phone: 360.853.7939
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Upper-Skagit-Library-125283767492130/