In a significant development for the coastal town of Yachats, Oregon, plans for a long-awaited library renovation and expansion are moving forward after overcoming initial administrative hurdles. The city is now set to negotiate with Unitus Services of Ridgefield, Washington, the lowest qualified bidder for the construction project. This new facility will replace the existing 51-year-old building on West Seventh Street, offering an expanded space with modern amenities. The project has been a community effort, supported by various grants and donations over the years, reflecting the town's commitment to enhancing its cultural and educational resources.
New Beginnings for Yachats Library
In the charming coastal town of Yachats, nestled along the Oregon coast, a new chapter is about to be written for the local library. After decades of discussions and planning, the city has finally reached a pivotal moment in its quest to build a more spacious and modern library. Initially, seven firms submitted bids for the project, with DSL Builders of Salem appearing to be the frontrunner. However, due to a missing insurance letter, Unitus Services emerged as the preferred contractor, with a bid just above the $1.5 million budget.
The original library, built in 1972, has served the community well but has become outdated. The new structure, designed by MD Architect + Design, will span approximately 3,600 square feet—significantly larger than the current 2,400-square-foot building. The expanded library will feature enhanced facilities including a community meeting room, dedicated spaces for teenagers and children, and improved storage for books, magazines, and DVDs. This transformation aims to provide a vibrant hub for learning and social interaction.
The journey to this point has not been without challenges. Over the past two decades, discussions about relocating or expanding the library have been ongoing. In 2019, when David Rivinus joined the Library Commission, the city had initially planned a modest 400-square-foot addition. However, generous donations and grants, including a substantial $250,000 Ford Foundation grant, allowed for a much more ambitious redesign. The project faced delays due to the pandemic and logistical issues such as soil stability concerns and necessary engineering reports. Despite these setbacks, the community's perseverance has kept the dream alive.
For now, the library continues to operate from temporary quarters at the Commons, where patrons can access services and browse collections. Once the new library opens, it promises to be a cornerstone of the community, fostering education and engagement for generations to come.
From a reader's perspective, this project exemplifies the power of community collaboration and determination. It highlights how small towns can achieve significant milestones through collective effort and unwavering commitment. The new library will not only serve as a repository of knowledge but also as a symbol of progress and unity for Yachats.