Orcas Island Public Library received a critical boost with passage of the state’s biennial budget for 2015–2016, which included $1.4 million in funding for the Library’s expansion project, “Books and Beyond: The Next Chapter.”

Senator Kevin Ranker, D-Orcas Island, supported by Representatives Jeff Morris and Kris Lytton, included the request in the capital budget. “On Orcas, the Library is the heart of the community,” said Senator Ranker. “This funding will help the Library realize its full potential as the go-to place on the island for all kinds of information for all ages, free access to computers and the internet, and a welcoming place to read, learn, work, and meet.”

The library board and staff have been carefully planning this expansion for the last few years. Extensive input from the community showed that islanders view the library as the center for books and all kinds of digital information, a gathering place, a workspace and a community center. Islanders want the library to expand both its space and its offerings of programs and services. Details on the expansion can be found at http://www.orcaslibrary.org/nextchapter.html.

“We’re thrilled!” commented Donna Riordan, president of the Library’s Board of Trustees. “We thank Senator Ranker for his strong support for Orcas Island and the Library’s expansion plans. This funding puts us close to reaching our fundraising goal, and that means that very soon we’ll realize an even better library for our community.”

Nearly $3 million has now been raised so far through a combination of state funding, a gift from Bob Henigson’s estate, Friends of the Orcas Island Library, reserves and numerous other private donations from islanders.

A public fundraising campaign will be launched this summer to raise the remainder of funds needed.