Now a cooling center, Mill Creek Library gets big upgrades

The Mill Creek Library has celebrated its reopening after a thorough $1. 3 million renovation, enhancing its role as a vital community resource. This extensive remodel, which took three months, introduced significant HVAC upgrades, allowing the library to operate as a cooling center during scorching heat waves. With over 15,000 visitors each month, the library's upgrades included new seating, ADA-compliant restrooms, and improved safety measures, such as hidden electrical cords. The revitalized space features aesthetic improvements, including new carpet and paint, contributing to a more inviting atmosphere for readers and workers alike.

R. D. Burley, an assistant director at Sno-Isle Libraries, emphasized the project’s focus on addressing long-overdue repairs and improving the overall experience for library users. The renovations were funded by Sno-Isle Libraries and supplemented by a $200,000 grant from the state, showcasing a commitment to community investment. Lois Langer Thompson, the executive director of Sno-Isle Libraries, stated that these improvements were essential for fostering a safer and more comfortable environment.

The project aligns with the library's mission to enhance community resilience, particularly in light of rising temperatures and extreme weather events.