Swan Valley Library Renovations Complete

SWAN VALLEY – The Swan Valley Library is open for patrons after being renovated this summer. The library has a brand new look. Not only was the roof replaced and logs treated on the structure, there were also several safety improvements. On Sept. 13, 2016 the Montana Department of Labor and Industry conducted a limited service safety and health consultation for the Swan Valley Library. The consultation was requested by Shelly Block, Risk Management Coordinator for Missoula County Risk and Benefits. Electrical issues were the main problem highlighted by the report.

The Missoula Public Library provides a staff person and resources to the Swan Valley Branch Library and the community maintains the building.

"Since [Missoula] County [owns the building and] pays the insurance, when Risks and Benefits got the report and the electrical issues needed to be taken care of, we added to the project we were considering doing," wrote Honore Bray, Missoula Public Library Director.

Bray set aside $10,000 per year out of the library budget for these improvements to the Swan Valley Branch Library. The budget set for the project was $100,000. That amount has been reached.

On the outside the building received a new roof and the logs were sand blasted, stained and caulked.

Inside the library the permanent electrical wiring systems, outlet receptacles, service boxes and light fixtures were replaced. A split pump heater and air conditioner were also added. In addition,the interior received new carpet and shelving so the staff can see who is in the building at all times which increases the safety for everyone.

"The facility will last for many more years with a new roof and the logs taken care of," wrote Bray. "The electrical issues needed to be taken care of for the safety of the people using the library and working in the building."

Swan Valley Librarian Colleen Kesterson calls the current renovations user-friendly.

"It has an open and friendly look," said Kesterson. "The shorter shelves make the room seem more open and welcoming. New lighting and colorful mobile chairs add to the look."

The Missoula Public Library Board visited the library Thursday, Aug. 24. They also commented how much more open it is and how fabulous the new furniture and fixtures look.

Many patrons have echoed these comments.

Kesterson said the new lighting makes it easier to find books on the lower shelves.

The final upgrades include an upgraded internet connection and an updated collection of books. Kesterson said more new books will be brought in and the library will keep a smaller collection of older novels. However, any book from the Missoula Public Library network can be requested and it will be delivered to the Swan Valley Library for check out.

"It is exciting to see a new look for the library and emphasis put on better electronics, an updated collection and safer environment for the community who uses the library," wrote Bray.

Kesterson is thankful for all the Condon residents who helped move furniture and books, those who cleaned and oiled the inside logs, and those whose purchase of the old shelving benefited the library. She also appreciated the help from the Missoula Public Library staff who moved, cleaned and weeded out unneeded materials and put all the books back on the shelves.

Kesterson said, "This project couldn't have been done without everyone's help."