Friends of the Winthrop Public Library
Friends of the Winthrop Public Library is a non-profit. We are dedicated to supporting the Winthrop Public Library and planning for its future. We’re working with you to build a library for our community to GATHER, CONNECT AND DISCOVER. Be a part of the future!
Why Does the Methow Valley Need a New Library? Why Now?
At just 1,141 square feet, our current Winthrop location—intended to be temporary over 12 years ago—lacks space for programs, collections, access to technology and space to work or study. Despite its small size, it is among the busiest per capita of the 30 libraries in the North Central Washington Libraries system. It supports up to 30 book clubs, many children’s programs and bustles with activity, yet there is hardly a place to sit. The women’s bathroom and the screen porch double as storage. Our existing population often overwhelms the space and expected growth in our valley is outpacing the library’s ability to serve all.
Funding the Project
The project is primarily funded by private donations and the State of Washington, with support from the North Central Washington Libraries and the Town of Winthrop. FOWL successfully secured a $2 million appropriation toward capital costs from the State and then raised the required, equal amount of private funding. With that success, FOWL was able to contract with the State to build the library and construction started in July 2020.
No new taxes will be needed to build or maintain the building.
How The Funding Will Be Spent
Funding pays for the design, engineering and construction of the library’s permanent home. This light-filled, 7,300-foot facility will include a divisible, public meeting room for up to 70 people, an acoustically separate children’s area, a teen area, a librarian’s work space, plenty of computers and tools, as well as a messy or ‘maker’ space for hands-on art and projects for all ages.
