Walla Walla to break ground on $16M public library renovation project

WALLA WALLA — Construction is officially getting under way on a $16 million renovation and expansion of the Walla Walla Public Library, with city officials scheduling a public groundbreaking ceremony for next week.

The Tuesday event at 9 a.m. marks the formal start of construction on the facility, at 238 E. Alder St., which originally opened in 1970. Interim work is already moving forward at the Alder Street site, where crews are finishing interior abatement work before transitioning to selective interior demolition and roof repairs.

The project, awarded to general contractor Banlin Construction of Kennewick by the Walla Walla City Council on May 27, aims to modernize a facility that serves more than 120,000 visitors annually. Library operations have temporarily relocated to 115 W. Main St. to allow construction to proceed safely.

Plans call for a comprehensive interior overhaul along with a 700-square-foot expansion to build a new Great Hall and extend both entrances. Upgrades include new restrooms, flexible meeting spaces, consolidated staff quarters, and full compliance with Americans with Disabilities Act standards. Work will also replace aging electrical, plumbing, lighting, and HVAC infrastructure with energy-efficient systems.

Funding for the renovation relies on a blend of city capital funds, grants, and private donations raised through “The Next Chapter” capital campaign, which provided the bulk of the financial support.

Construction is scheduled to run through summer 2027.

Photo courtesy Walla Walla Public Library

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