Library Expansion Plans

Design plans for the renovation and expansion project are nearing completion. Once complete, the Library will achieve 12,000 sq ft to accommodate growth in all areas.

Attention Subcontractors: Bidding is open until March 14. See permit and drawing specs here.

Goals for the Project

SERVICE AND PROGRAM GOALS

• Create more interactive learning and engagement opportunities for youth of all ages.
• Support families and educators’ aspirations for youth development.
• Accommodate more books and materials for loan.
• Increase spaces and resources for community use.

  INFRASTRUCTURE GOALS

• Expand access to Library resources, including parking lot expansion.
• Reduce environmental impact and adopt energy efficient systems.
• Design for flexible use and future growth.

Temporary Library Space

During construction, the Library will need to vacate the building. Minimal library services will be available at the CMC Buena Vista campus, east wing, 27900 County Rd. 319, Buena Vista. Services include the following:

• Hold pick up
• Returns (during open hours)
• Book and DVDs for checkout
• Copier
• Two 30-minute computer stations & printing
• Classes (see event calendar)
• Drop-In Family Learning Space (M,W,F 9:00 – 10:00 a.m. before toddler programs) & M-Th 3:00 – 5:00 p.m.

Our ebook and audiobook budget will be expanded to accommodate more Libby users.

Alternative Services & Locations

Study Rooms: Salida Public Library

Computers: Salida Public Library, Lake County Library (Leadville)

Collections: Please place holds through our catalog in order to access our full collection. Or, visit Salida Public Library for a browsing collection– all Chaffee County residents are eligible for a free library card.

Wi-Fi: Free open access Wi-Fi is available at River Park Pavillion, South Main Square Park, and McPhelemy Park.

Meeting Room: Salida Public Library, Buena Vista Community Center, Sangre De Cristo Electric Association, Grace Church Community Room, Chaffee County North End EMS Facility.

Expansion Project Donors:

• The Boettcher Foundation, $35,000
• The Robert Hoag Rawlings Foundation, $25,000
• Colorado Energy Office, Public Building Electrification Grant, $500,000

To contribute to the expansion project, please contact Director Cecilia LaFrance at clafrance@buenavistalibrary.org.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I drop off books during construction?

Our book drop will remain centrally located at the County Annex across the street from the Library. Or, return books during regular hours at the CMC location. Books returned to Salida or Lake County Libraries will also reach us.

What are the hours at the temporary location?

Monday – Friday 9:00 a.m.- 6:00 p.m.; Saturdays 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Will the Library offer classes?

Yes. Favorite youth and adult classes will continue after May 2025. Some classes requiring more space will be held offsite. See our event calendar for details.

What about parking?

Yes, we are adding more parking by redesigning our existing parking lot to be double-sided.

Can we rent a meeting room?

Our temporary space does not accommodate public meeting room use. Please see the list above of other local options.