EPHRATA — The Ephrata Public Library is gearing up for significant renovations aimed at modernizing the facility and enhancing services for its patrons this upcoming spring.  

“This comprehensive project is an extension of our ongoing branding efforts, and it will be a significant upgrade that brings our spaces up to date,” Supervising Librarian Aaron Loeffelbein said.  

The renovations will be paid for by a $10 million project called "Reimagining Spaces,” which is renovating the 30 libraries within the NCW Libraries district, according to the library district website. Soap Lake and Royal City libraries were two of the recent renovation projects. Now, there will be a focus on Manson and Chelan libraries, then Ephrata, according to NCW’s timeline.  

The renovation plans will focus on improving spaces for patron use, Loeffelbein said, and the initiative is not only about aesthetics but also aims to solidify consistent branding across all library locations. 

The Ephrata Library will be getting new floors, paint, shelves, furniture and lighting. There will also be an improved service desk and better signage.  

Loeffelbein said the project is scheduled to start in the spring of 2026, with a tentative timeline for completion within several months. The library will be closed during renovations. 

Details regarding maintaining library operations during the renovation period are still being finalized, but plans are afoot to provide limited services to patrons. To ensure no community members miss out on library services during this period, Loeffelbein said he is ramping up partnerships with local organizations.  

“We are focusing on underserved populations, including low-income and disabled individuals, to ensure they have access to library programs and resources,” he said. 

The library remains committed to its mission of fostering literacy and connection within the community, he said. 

Public input is a crucial element in the redesign process, Loeffelbein said. In 2023, the library engaged community members through input sessions, receiving “hundreds of responses” about desired aesthetic directions and functional spaces.  

Residents were presented with various curated design choices, ultimately landing on a combination of three themes: “Off the Grid,” “Retreat” and “Outdoor Adventure.” The selected themes feature color palettes inspired by natural elements and aim to create welcoming environments, Loeffelbein said.  

“Families with kids are going to really love the new space,” Loeffelbein said, referring to a planned vibrant wall painted in warm yellow, alongside a blue wall to create an inviting atmosphere.  

He said he believes the changes will foster a sense of community and enhance the user experience at the library. 

In addition to cosmetic upgrades, the library plans to introduce two new meeting spaces to accommodate community gatherings.  

“The space that currently houses my office will become a study room, while the adjacent room will transform into a larger meeting area capable of hosting up to 30 people,” he said. 

These spaces will be available for public appointments and library-hosted programs, including specialized story time sessions catering to sensory-sensitive children. 

The renovations have been a long time coming, with the library building last receiving significant updates in 1986. 

“It’s been 40 years since this building opened with the current layout and furniture,” he said.  

However, Loeffelbein acknowledges that the timeline for the renovations is complex due to various factors, including bureaucratic procedures.  

“Anything related to government projects can be time-consuming, especially when several agencies are involved,” he said. “The city owns this property, and there were contracts that needed to be established to ensure all entities are on the same page.” 

Loeffelbein said there is a rich history of the Ephrata Public Library, which initially began as a grassroots effort in 1934, started by the local Women’s Club and a junior high Sunday School class. 

“We stand on the shoulders of those who founded the library in this community,” he said. 

In light of the upcoming renovations, the library is also focusing on continuing its events and programs. Loeffelbein encourages residents to participate in the summer library program, which is ongoing and allows families to engage in various activities and sign up for events via the library’s online calendar. 

For those interested in keeping up with the Ephrata Public Library and its upcoming offerings, Loeffelbein suggests checking its website for updates about the renovation timeline and ongoing programs. 

Ephrata Public Library  

45 Alder St. NW 

Mon., Tues. and Thurs. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. 

Wed. 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. 

Sat. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. 

NCWLibraries.org/locations/Ephrata-Public-Library 

509-754-3971

    A draft of the newly planned layout for the Ephrata Library. Certain elements are still being finalized; however, upgrades are currently planned for the spring of 2026.
  

    The color pallet and carpet samples for the renovation at the Ephrata Public Library. The colors were chosen by the community in a 2023 survey.