Green River’s Historic Carnegie Library faces uncertain future

ROCK SPRINGS — The future of the historic Green River Carnegie Library, an iconic landmark for more than a century, remains uncertain as discussions about its future continue among county officials and preservation advocates.

Once a beacon of education and community, the library now stands vacant and weathered with signs of decay and years of neglect.

The structure served as a crucial hub for the city from its completion in 1907 until 1980 when a newer library was built nearby. Subsequently, it underwent several transitions including once accommodating the Green River Circuit Court.

Recent evaluations of the building’s state have unveiled notable structural problems, raising concerns about its safety and potential for restoration.

“It’s going to take a couple of million dollars just to keep it from falling down,” Commissioner Taylor Jones said. “And the cost of renovation is just not doable for the county.”

A pre-pandemic assessment estimated the cost of basic repairs would be approximately $350,000, but county officials believe the final expenses would be much higher.

The initial renovation estimates did not anticipate the significant surge in construction costs that followed. This unforeseen increase could substantially impact the final price tag bringing it into the millions, said Gene Legerski, Sweetwater County Public Works Director.

Legerski highlighted additional costs that have not been factored into the previous numbers.

“Those estimates don’t include what it would cost for us to get the building compliant with the ADA (American Disabilities Act), or full restoration of the foundation and other things that are critical to the building being further renovated,” he said.

The potential presence of asbestos, mold, or lead paint poses additional challenges and costs that would be included in any future plans including demolition, Legerski added.

This story was published on May 18, 2024.