On March 25, 2024, library leaders and partners broke ground, marking the start of construction for the Illinois Valley Library Renovation Project including representatives from Josephine Community Library Foundation, Josephine Community Library District, the City of Cave Junction, ZCS Engineering and Architecture, and Ausland Group.
“After years of planning and fundraising, we’re finally putting shovels to dirt,” said Library Director Kate Lasky. “Our new branch library remodel and addition is more than just bricks and mortar; it’s a testament to our community’s dedication to growth and learning.”
Library leaders have worked with ZCS Engineering & Architecture, Inc. since 2021 to plan the project, which will expand the library from 4,264 to 5,764 square feet and add seismic retrofit, a new roof, and energy-efficient fixtures. Ausland Group won the public construction bid to complete the renovation project including a new community room with a teaching kitchen, an early learning center and maker space, and a S.T.E.A.M. outdoor education area.
The Illinois Valley Library Renovation is funded by a joint Community Development Block Grant with the City of Cave Junction, American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds designated by former Representative Lily Morgan, a 2021 crowdfund, and private grants from additional philanthropic organizations.
The library in Illinois Valley is currently closed for the remodel. Community members are asked to visit one of the other library branches in Grants Pass, Williams, or Wolf Creek for computer access, wi-fi, programs, and browsing. Temporary services are available at Illinois Valley Senior Center at 520 E River St, Cave Junction, OR 97523:
- Hold pick-up service is available Thursdays from 9:30am–4pm.
- The book drop box is accessible Monday–Friday from 9:30am–4pm on the west side of the building.
Construction is scheduled to be completed in fall of this year with a community grand opening and celebration to follow.
For more information about the Illinois Valley library renovation, visit jclfoundation.org.
For more information about library services and programs, email info@josephinelibrary.org or call 541-476-0571.