The Kent Panther Lake Library will reopen on Monday, March 13, after being closed for 10 months for repairs after a vehicle smashed into the building.
The vehicle caused significant structural damage, according to the King County Library System.
“Extensive repairs were needed,” according to the statement. “Supply chain issues and contractor shortages impacted the project’s speed and timeline.”
King County Library System leases the building, 20500 108th Ave. SE. The property owner and JLL management company handled the repairs and insurance claim. As of March 6, a King County Library System spokesperson did not have the cost of the repairs.
A 37-year-old Kent man lost control of his vehicle and hit the west side of the building at about 2 a.m. May 7, 2022, according to Kent Police.
During the closure, Kent Panther Lake holds on books for library users were sent to the Kent Library. Current holds will remain there until they expire. After reopening, new holds will be sent to Kent Panther Lake automatically. If library users changed their preferred pickup location, they can update it in their online account.
During the closure, the book drop on the side of the building was closed. A temporary external book drop was available in the parking lot. After reopening, please return items to the original book drop on the side of the building.
Operating hours for the library will be 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday; 1 to 8 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday; and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday. The library will be closed Friday through Sunday.
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