Fairhaven Library nears completion of repairs

<< Back to archives | Sunday, October 4, 2009

Built in 1904 - over 100 years ago - the Fairhaven Library was originally a red brick building.  But within a year it became obvious that the builders had used the wrong kind of brick - and it was starting to wear away.  So the building was given a wrap of stucco - or something close to it.  And that lasted almost 100 years.  About 10 years ago, the cracking and aging became serious and the city became aware of this. 

However it took strong insistence by the “Friends of the Fairhaven Library” and direct appeals to the Bellingham City Council to get the city to finally replace the exterior protective coating.  Work began early this summer and should be complete this month.  You can see the Dawson Construction workers have replaced the outside lettering on the south wall.  This lettering was purchased by the Friends after approval by the Bellingham Library Administration - after 10 years of requests.  The money for the lettering was paid for entirely from public donations to the Friends.  We were a little worried about whether or not the lettering would be replaced. 

Now - this past week - come reports the city may not reopen the library when the repairs are finished.  Budget woes are the excuse - the same excuse that the city has tried to use five times since 1992 to close our beloved library.  In truth, this library is much more cost effective than the main library - a fact which when researched and revealed in 1992 prevented the closure.  The years have shown this library to be be cost effective.  And green.  By saving driving downtown - 3 miles away - and parking downtown, this library serves to dramatically lower carbon use. 

We don’t usually use this space for community appeals.  Indeed, this may be the first time in seven years.  But, our library now needs the vocal and written support of all residents of the southside of Bellingham if it is to continue to stay open.  It particularly serves the school kids and the elderly.  But we all love it - and have loved and used it for over 100 years.  I urge you to contact the library system and your council representative - and Mayor Dan Pike.

One bit of fun trivia.  This is not a branch library.  When New Whatcom and Fairhaven joined in 1904 and chose the name “Bellingham” as a compromise, each town’s library continued to be a full library.  Our library has never been designated a “branch” and thus, although it effectively serves as a branch now, we still properly call it The Fairhaven Library.  - John Servais

The Silvery Moon has just returned from the World's Largest Gem Show with a huge selection of mohi colored sapphires and new designs. Show your Valentine your love.

Business Features & Sales + VIEW ALL