BELLINGHAM, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – The Bellingham Public Library has received funds to continue renovations in its aging building.

The library announced on Wednesday that $3.03 million in capital funding has been allocated from the 2025-2027 Washington State budget for the Bellingham Central Library Renovation.

$2 million of the state funding comes from the Library Capital Improvement Program grant and $1.03 million in Local & Community Projects funding.

These funds will be matched by the City of Bellingham as well as private donations.

“We are grateful for this funding, which will help us create a more enjoyable and accessible library experience for families and children. These improvements will ensure our library continues be a welcoming place that cultivates growth, learning, and connection,” said Bellingham Mayor Kim Lund.

The library, first built in 1950, will now be able to move forward with phase two of their renovations.

The library says that the ground floor will be transformed into an ADA-accessible space for children and teens as well as a main floor help desk, upper floor staff areas and upgrades to the building’s HVAC system.

Construction is projected to be underway in 2026 or 2027.