New Library in Grandview

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Story Published: Jul 2, 2009 at 1:42 PM PST

By Stacy Lilienthal

The deadline is over, but they think they made it. The city of Grandview and the Y.V.C.C. Campus there had until the end of June to secure 2 million dollars for a new library. They say they did it.

By next year, this Grandview library will be in a new place. Bleyhl Community Library director Linda Dunham says she's been happy with the space she has, but says it's time for an upgrade. "We have experienced greater library use within the last year. There have been spikes that have been phenomenal." But a new 4 million dollars joint library with the Y-V-C-C Grandview Campus will change that.

The campus doesn't even have a library so students have to drive an hour for books. "It's been a bit of a challenge for those who have a hard time commuting up there. Or sometimes they may request materials that a student in Yakima already received," said Dean of the Grandview Y.V.C.C. Campus Bryce Humpherys.

But the city and college got the state to agree to chip in two million dollars, if they secured two million by June 30th. Monday, the city council unanimously voted to provide up to 750 thousand dollars, if it's needed, to make sure there is enough money for the new library. Other money came from grants and local donations.

Dunham says that might mean more books can stay. "If you're buying new books to satisfy the people who want new books, you have to get rid of the others when your building is not getting any larger." She also says she's really looking forward to having more meeting rooms.

We talked to several parents who hare happy about the new library, but are shocked by the sticker price. "It's not only adding an asset, but it's also going to save the citizens of Grandview so it's a great thing," Grandview Mayor Norm Childress replied to those people. He says it's their way to save money in the long run, and show support for the college.

The 1200 square foot, 1 story building should break ground next spring, and is expected to be complete by next summer.

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