The Library Commons is the name for what will be a combined parking structure, library and community center. The City designed this project to be a catalyst for downtown development. The City’s research and development reports, including the downtown development plan and sub-area plan, indicate that more parking spaces in downtown (in conjunction with the floodwall) will spur development and create an even more vibrant community center.
The Library: Expanded services to meet a growing community
The new library will better meet the needs of our growing community. With larger space we'll have more books, programs, and services available.
The Commons: Gathering, Learning, and Business Spaces
Without a dedicated events center, Mount Vernon business and community groups have limited meeting and conference space. The library and community center will provide comfortable and useable space to support our growing community.
The space will offer:
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Parking Garage: Providing economic development & tourism opportunities
The parking will include:
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Floor Plan for Library and Commons Area
Quick Facts
Operations
Now:
The library operates on a 28% smaller budget than comparable libraries serving populations of 35,000 residents (the current population of Mount Vernon), but we have the highest percentage of budget invested in resources for libraries serving communities of our size. That is $40,000 more than any other library in Skagit County. |
Future Building:
There will be minimal increase in operating expenses because the new facility will be designed with staff efficiency in mind. The increased revenue potential will offset new costs to make a neutral operating budget. We can double available programs and be a hub for community activities at the same cost. |
Building
Now:
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Future Building:
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