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Library director asks commission for needs assessment funding after facility review
Summary
Leavenworth Public Library Director Matt Noyan reviewed facility problems identified in a community needs assessment and asked the commission to consider committing $40,000 toward an updated needs assessment; the library has raised about $16,000 and estimates outside bids at $50,000—60,000.
Matt Noyan, director of the Leavenworth Public Library, presented the library's 2024 annual report and asked the City Commission to consider funding a comprehensive needs assessment to guide long-term decisions about renovation or replacement of the facility.
Noyan said the library and community donors have raised more than $16,000 toward a needs assessment. He told commissioners the preliminary estimates he'd received from consultants range from about $50,000 to $60,000 and asked the city to consider committing $40,000 toward the study; the library would use its funds and seek additional support if needed.
Noyan outlined a long list of facility concerns documented in the library's report and illustrated during his presentation: a nonworking book drop at the front entry, detached metal panels on the west wall that could allow water penetration, a frequently used alcove that attracts unsanitary uses, interior doors without automatic openers that staff must prop open for accessibility, high and failing fluorescent lighting, a leaking skylight, dated and stained floor tiles tied to HVAC filter issues, and limited accessible restroom and egress options for patrons with mobility challenges. He said deliveries are inefficient and that the processing area is poorly sited relative to the main floor, increasing staff handling and delays; the library receives roughly 13.9 tons of material annually.
When asked about funding sources and grants, Noyan said federal HUD library construction programs are not available in the city's current entitlement allocations; he said a former federal library construction program ended in the 1990s. He and commissioners discussed ADA accessibility; a staff member said the city would "take a look" at the ADA door and emergency exits to confirm compliance.
Noyan asked the commission to consider the request during 2026 budget planning and invited a city representative to sit on a committee to shape the study. He said the goal of the assessment is to determine whether to renovate the current building, rebuild, or move to a new site.
No formal vote was taken. Commissioners thanked Noyan for the report and said staff would follow up on ADA and other operational items he raised.
