UNION GAP, Wash. – Union Gap residents can once again enjoy a local library, as the city celebrated the opening of the Union Gap Library and Community Center. This comes after nearly 12 years without such a facility.
On October 9, 2024, the library and community center officially opened its doors. This marked the culmination of a nearly decade-long project that began back in 2015. Residents and city officials are thrilled about what this new development means for the community.
Julie Schilling, vice chair of the Friends of Union Gap Library and Community Center, reflected on the initial conversation that started it all, in a yard with another member of FoUGLCC.
“I asked, what does this city need? You tell me what the city needs. And she told me we need our library back,” she shared.
The project faced its fair share of challenges, including fundraising efforts and delays due to rising costs during the COVID-19 pandemic. Jason Cavanaugh, Union Gap’s director of public works and community development, said some money was secured, but had to be used by a certain time, which couldn’t be done for the library during the pandemic.
“It’s been a long time and the waiting and then the coming, so I know the local residents, city staff, council has all been very thrilled about, you know, just the building being open and just how it turned out,” Cavanaugh said.
Cavanaugh added that about five years ago, the city council decided to integrate the library into the Yakima Valley Library system.
“We worked real hard to try and figure out building and getting design and getting that to fruition for us,” he stated.
Despite the setbacks, the non-profit organization and local community managed to gather the necessary funds, including over $3 million in grants from Senators Jim Honeyford and Patty Murray.
The library’s opening is a significant milestone for Union Gap residents, who no longer need to cross city limits to access a library. This renewed resource means more than just books for the local families.
“Having a library once again in the City of Union Gap is very key. It develops more community. Families have a local library that they can go in and partake in,” he emphasized.
Operating hours for the library are Monday through Saturday. The community center will primarily host special events, city meetings, and soon, will also be home to a Meals on Wheels operation.
