Fort Vancouver Regional Library District Breaks Ground On Washougal Community Library (Photo) - 10/16/26
Washougal, Wash. — More than a century after local women established a small reading room in the back of a downtown general store, Washougal is beginning a new chapter in its library history.
On Thursday, Oct. 15, Fort Vancouver Regional Libraries (FVRLibraries), the Fort Vancouver Regional Library Foundation (FVRL Foundation), donors, and community partners celebrated the groundbreaking of a new, 14,000-square-foot Washougal Community Library at 222 Durgan Street.
The $19.4 million project will replace the community's current 2,300-square-foot library with a modern facility offering nearly seven times the space to serve Washougal's growing population. Construction is expected to begin shortly after the groundbreaking, with the new library scheduled to open in 2028.
“We’re building something much bigger than a library. We’re creating opportunities that will change lives,” said Jennifer Giltrop, executive director, FVRLibraries. “From a child discovering a love of reading to a teen finding a place to belong, this will be a place for everyone. Today, we’re breaking ground on a place where countless new stories and community connections will begin.”
The new library will dramatically expand what’s possible for Washougal’s growing population, offering:
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Dedicated spaces for children, teens and adults.
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A large community room and three meeting rooms.
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Expanded book collections and technology access.
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Comfortable spaces for reading, studying and gathering.
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An outdoor courtyard for community use.
The new library will also become part of Washougal's evolving towncenter revitalization project, complementing planned improvements, including an expanded community center, splash park, dog park, and additional public parking.
The project represents years of planning, advocacy and collaboration among FVRLibraries, the FVRL Foundation, Friends of Washougal Community Library, public partners and private donors.
Last year, voters helped make the project possible by approving FVRLibraries’ first levy lid lift in 15 years. The library also received a major boost in July 2026 with a record $6 million gift from The Endeavour Fund, the largest philanthropic investment in the FVRL Foundation's history.
“Community generosity has brought us to this exciting milestone,” said Jenny Wilkerson, executive director, FVRL Foundation. “Today, we’re launching our ‘Close the Gap’ capital campaign to raise the remaining $400,000 needed to reach our fundraising goal. This is your moment to join us and help us cross the finish line.”
Designed by Hacker Architects with input from community members and library partners, the new building will reflect Washougal's identity and connection to the surrounding natural landscape and rivers.
“The design of this library grew directly from conversations with the Washougal community,” said Laura Klinger of Hacker Architects. “From its welcoming spaces and connections to nature to the ways it honors local history and culture, every element reflects the community’s priorities. We’re honored to help create a destination in the heart of downtown that will contribute to a thriving Washougal.”
For more information about the new Washougal Community Library, including project updates and opportunities to support the fundraising campaign, visit www.fvrl.org/NewWashougalLibrary.
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