What to do about Lakewood’s dilapidated library branches? You can help decide
The Pierce County Library System wants community input before deciding what to do about two derelict Lakewood branches.
The library system is forming a community committee this month to determine where the Lakewood and Tillicum branches will reside.
Options are:
▪ Keep the branches where they are with significant investment.
▪ Move them into to an existing building in a different location.
▪ Construct new buildings.
The committee’s recommendation will go on to the library’s Board of Trustees, where a decision would be made at the end of the year.
The Lakewood and Tillicum libraries are in critical condition.
“At this point, costs to repair and maintain the buildings far outweigh the value of the properties. We are committed to providing quality library services for Lakewood residents,” Pierce County Library System executive director Georgia Lomax said in a statement.
The Lakewood branch is 59 years old and requires $10 million to $15 million in repairs. The roof leaks and needs replacement, as does the elevator, heating and cooling systems, and plumbing system, spokesperson Mary Getchell said. The library windows and doors also need upgrades.
Getchell said engineers and inspectors advised that the Lakewood branch at 6300 Wildaire Road SW could not withstand another rainy fall without a risk of damage, which could endanger staff and books.
The 38-year-old Tillicum Library also needs major work, according to a building inspection last year. There are “significant amounts” of water seeping into the building through both the roof and siding. The branch’s insulation, windows, doors and building systems are dilapidated, Getchell said.
The Tillicum branch at 14916 Washington Ave. SW, serves some of the lowest income families in the area, Getchell said.
“A public library is critical for that community,” she told The News Tribune.
The library system wants to hear from people before committing to any overhaul.
“While the committee is working, the Library System will not invest further in the buildings and determined further costs for repairs far outweigh the value of the buildings. It is evaluating its options to serve the community best,” a library press release said.
The advisory committee would convene in June and is expected to provide the library system with its recommendation in the fall.
The library system is taking applications for the volunteer committee until April 30. Applications can be found at the Lakewood and Tillicum Libraries, Lakewood City Hall or online at imagine.pcls.us.
