Looking forward to the Aberdeen Timberland Library Remodel? Wondering what the next steps are? Look no further - we have information for you!
How long will the Library be closed?
We anticipate the Library being closed for 6 months.
- October 2026 - Library Closes
- November 2026 - Construction begins
- Spring 2027 - Library Reopens
Why remodel now?
The City of Aberdeen & TRL are investing in the library to meet the growing needs of our community. In order to ensure a safe and efficient remodel process, temporary closure is necessary. During the closure, library services will be available at Hoquiam & Montesano Libraries. When we re-open, you will find an improved space designed for connection, creativity, and learning.
How do I get my items while the library is closed?
- You can return and pick up materials at any Timberland Regional Library. Our closest neighboring libraries are Hoquiam and Montesano.
- Before the closure, we will move all Aberdeen holds to the Hoquiam or Montesano libraries. Please let us know your preference.
- Digital Services are always available eBooks on Libby, Kanopy, online databases, digital magazines and more.
Will Library staff be available?
Yes, the Aberdeen Library Staff will be working at the Hoquiam library. You can also contact us online, email any questions or issues to asklib@trl.org, or chat with us between 10 AM and 3 PM Monday-Saturday by clicking on "Ask Us - Chat" tab on the right side of the TRL.org webpage.
What will be NEW in the Aberdeen Library?
- Lighting
- Flooring
- Paint
- HVAC system
- Elevator
What Improvements will the library be getting?
There will be improvements to the following:
- Public computers
- Public restrooms
- Friends of the Library Spaces
- Furniture
- Service desk
- Meeting rooms
- Youth area
- Teen Area
- Collections
- Seating Areas
- Staff offices
What will our services, programs, hours and collections look like during and after the remodel?
- We are currently planning our Events schedule for the duration of the closure. Stay tuned at TRL.org/events for updates to our calendar of events.
- Post-remodel, services will be expanded through more functional and usable spaces. We expect to remain at the same or expand the hours and services we can offer due to better use of our space.
- Collection numbers will remain as they are. A refresh is a good opportunity to assess how our communities use the library and which types of materials are most popular. The updated space will accommodate our current collections while allowing room to meet the needs of future generations of library users.
How is this being paid for? I thought TRL is in a budget deficit.
The Aberdeen Library remodel is being funded through dedicated endowed funds established specifically for improvements to the Aberdeen Library. The primary funding source of 4.1 million is a portion of the Kathryn N. Sherk Trust, which is managed by the Grays Harbor Community Foundation.
In the early 2000s, the library received a generous bequest from longtime community member Kathryn N. Sherk. Her gift was intended to support major library improvements for years to come. Thanks to careful stewardship and growth of the fund by the Grays Harbor Community Foundation, a portion of the trust is now being used to help fund this remodel and invest in the library's future.
Additional funds are being sought with the support and advocacy of the Friends of the Aberdeen Library and the City of Aberdeen’s Library Advisory Board. The City of Aberdeen, which owns the library building, is responsible for major building repairs and capital improvements and is an important partner in the remodel project.
What will TRL contribute to the library remodel?
TRL will provide labor for moving in and out of the library and for some design elements in the new space - utilizing current staff for this purpose.
How can I stay informed?
We will share frequent updates including photos, videos, milestones and reopening announcements on the following:
- Email Newsletters- Subscribe to stay informed!
- Updates will be added to TRL.org/Aberdeen
- Aberdeen Library Facebook Page
