Planning the Future of Sylvan Way
Ensuring high-quality library service today while planning responsibly for tomorrow
Participate in Community Survey
Kitsap Regional Library is beginning planning efforts for the future Sylvan Way library facility and related community partnerships. As part of this process, we want to hear from community members about how you currently use the library, what’s working well, what challenges or opportunities exist, and what you hope to see in the future.
This survey is intended to inform early planning and community conversations. Responses will help guide future engagement, program development, and long-term planning efforts.
We recognize that people experience libraries and community spaces differently, and we welcome a broad range of perspectives and lived experiences. Whether you use the library regularly, occasionally, or not at all, your feedback is valuable.
The survey should take approximately 5–10 minutes to complete.
The Sylvan Way Building Today
You may notice that part of the Sylvan Way branch is closed. We want to share what’s happening and what comes next.
The closed area is safe; however, it will not reopen. The concrete foundation within the closed space was opened to repair the library’s main sewer line, and after careful review, the decision was made not to rebuild that portion of the building. With the Sylvan Way building coming closer to the end of its useful life, rebuilding part of it would not be a responsible use of public funds.
We know this change can be disappointing. Sylvan Way is an important place for our community and our entire library system. This decline in Sylvan Way's condition, which we've monitored and managed since completing a professional facilities assessment in 2020, makes our path forward clear: the building is aging, and it is time to start planning for the future.
This change is the beginning of a larger conversation. In the months ahead, we will be inviting the community to help shape what comes next for Sylvan Way. We are committed to listening, sharing information openly, and working together toward a long-term solution.
In 2020, Kitsap Regional Library commissioned a professional facilities assessment. The study found that the building and its major systems were nearing the end of their useful life. At that time, the roof and electrical switchgear were replaced to address urgent failures.
Since then, we have repaired the sewer line and stabilized critical systems, but the building continues to age.
- Soil and underground conditions may create future plumbing and electrical issues
- The electrical system is outdated and cannot fully support modern technology needs
- The HVAC system is complex and nearing the end of its life
- The network infrastructure cannot support future digital library services
- The building lacks a modern sprinkler/fire suppression system
Addressing these issues would cost more than the building’s current value; full replacement is the only fiscally responsible long-term option.
Questions About the Closure & Future Planning
Stay Informed
This page will be updated regularly with:
- Project milestones
- Community input opportunities
- Service updates
Our commitment: transparency, listening, and responsible stewardship of public resources.