Public libraries are unique in many ways. The “live load” capacity of a public library is about 150 lbs. per square foot, more similar to warehouses than offices or schools. Furnishings and equipment must be able to withstand heavy public use for an extended time, and of course technology infrastructure is expensive. The cost per square foot estimate for the proposed Sequim Library project is $456/sf, somewhat lower than costs per square foot for many library projects.
