FOLLOWUP: Air-conditioning installation soon for West Seattle Library

(Photo from spl.org)

A year and a half ago, we told you that the Seattle Public Library had obtained a $5.5 million federal grant to pay for air conditioning at five branches, including West Seattle (Admiral). Since the library has been without AC, some heat waves have forced it to close. But those days are close to over. We got a tip (thank you!) that the branch was tentatively clearing its schedule later this spring in anticipation of the work. So we asked SPL spokesperson Laura Gentry about the project. Here’s what she told WSB:

The Library looks forward to installing a new HVAC system with air conditioning at the West Seattle Branch! We do not yet have a confirmed start date for the work as we await final permitting and begin the construction bidding process.

We anticipate it will take approximately 3 months to complete the work, and the branch will be closed during that time.

We will be sure to give West Seattle patrons as much advance notice as possible for this closure. We hope to have more information about a project timeline in the next couple of weeks.

The West Seattle branch is a historic Carnegie library, opened in 1910.

junctioneer March 27, 2026 (11:57 am)

3 months!!! I did not expect that!Now I wonder, is that an overpromise, underdeliver sort of scenario, or will this actually take 9 months.

D March 27, 2026 (4:09 pm)

It’s a Carnegie building. They have to follow stick guidelines when doing any work on those buildings.

Jake March 27, 2026 (12:21 pm)

Nice!! Thank god too. This is one of the hottest libraries I’ve ever been in in the summer.

Gina March 27, 2026 (4:23 pm)

Hallelujah!

Michael M March 30, 2026 (1:17 am)

That might be a good time to do some maintenance to the front of the building – pressure wash the steps, new paint, maybe refinish the front doors, stuff like that. The old girl could use some sprucing up.

IDC9 March 31, 2026 (6:09 pm)

Air conditioning is becoming a necessity to survive our increasingly warm summers. I’m glad to see the Seattle Public Library system has recognized this. A three month branch closure will suck. But the cool, comfortable library will be well worth it when its all done.

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