Timber revenue funds new Sequim Library — No property taxes used

The new Sequim Library is almost ready to open, and the best part? No local property taxes were used to build it. Construction was funded primarily through timber revenue from State Forest trust lands managed by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR), which supports local services like libraries, hospitals and schools.

The North Olympic Library System (NOLS) combined timber revenue with state grants, generous donations and a low-interest state loan to build the new Sequim Library facility.

In total, approximately $9.1 million in timber revenue will help fund the $10.7 million project plus financing costs. Of this amount, $2 million held in NOLS capital reserves helped launch the planning phase in 2020 by matching a Library Capital Improvement Program grant from the Washington State Department of Commerce. From the 2024 groundbreaking through completion in 2026, timber revenue is projected to fund an additional $1 million in construction costs. The remaining $6.1 million in future timber revenue is designated to repay a 20-year low-interest loan through the state’s LOCAL Program.

Community members gave over $1.5 million to the project, funding everything from study rooms to an outdoor stage and children’s play area. Multiple grants have supplemented construction costs while supporting sustainable and resilient features such as solar panels and electric vehicle chargers.

“When the 2018 library bond measure for a new Sequim Library narrowly failed by 1% of the vote, it was disheartening. We had to reduce the library’s size from the original plans, but the non-tax timber revenue enabled us to move forward and build a modern and safe facility for Sequim,” said NOLS Executive Director Noah Glaude.

“DNR manages timber harvests thoughtfully and responsibly, guided by science and long-term forest health. The revenue generated from local lands comes right back into the community, supporting services people rely on every day,” Glaude said. “In the case of the Sequim Library Project, the timber revenue is also helping support local businesses, such as Clallam County based contractors Hoch Construction and Johnson Electric.”

At the Dec. 18 special meeting of the NOLS Board of Trustees, DNR staff members Bill Wells, David Hurn and Drew Rosenbaum gave a presentation that highlighted how timber revenue from state trust lands directly supports public services.

“DNR employees, myself included, live in the communities where we manage the lands. We care deeply about the land. We care deeply about clean air and clean water as much as anyone who lives here,” said Wells, a DNR Regional Manager from Forks, during the presentation. “And we value that the revenue produced goes to junior taxing district beneficiaries that impact all of our lives.”

To honor the land and the traditional building style of the area, the Sequim Library incorporates timber throughout the building. Monumental beams, finely crafted carpentry, and the clean, minimal lines of the exterior cedar siding celebrate the region’s working forest legacy.

Manufacturing and supply chain challenges for specially fabricated parts have delayed the library’s opening to 2026. The temporary location at 609 W. Washington St. remains fully operational. Staff plan a several week transition period to move collections and furniture once the opening date is set.

“We are grateful for our community’s patience and support as the team of local tradespeople coordinate with metal fabrication experts to get the final exterior wall completed and built to last,” Glaude said. “We can’t wait to announce a grand opening date and welcome everyone into the library soon.”

For construction updates with photo slideshows, visit NOLS.org/construction.