After 15 years of planning and fund raising, a renovation of the Walter E. Olson Memorial Library in Eagle River transformed the library to meet the needs of a changing community. The space not only serves residents as a community and cultural center, but as a technology hub for exploration and innovation.
The 4,500-square-foot addition to the existing 6,500-square-foot space capitalizes on the original library’s craftsmanship, seamless melding old with new, with modern features, open spaces, and sustainable materials. Stone piers to complement the existing stone work, while large windows facing Main Street let in natural light infused through glass interior walls throughout the entire space.

The renovation and expansion made room for expanded computer, study, and reading rooms; a public meeting room; an enlarged children’s area and a young adult space; self-check station; and a “tinker’s studio.” There’s also a cozy fireplace in the adult area for reading and socializing, a large information desk, and a book drop directly into the building on the east side.

A pitched roof also solved maintenance issues and off-street parking is now available for 22 vehicles.