SILVERDALE – Kitsap Regional Library’s plans to build a new library along Bucklin Hill Road and Blaine Avenue got a boost in the form of a $100,000 “challenge grant” from the First Federal Community Foundation. The grant is for the purchase of land for the new Central Kitsap library facility in Silverdale.

“We know that this community has been waiting for a new library for a generation. This will set a new standard in Kitsap County for what a library can be,” said Jill Jean, library director. “We believe Central Kitsap deserves a library that engages, inspires and provides a point of civic pride.  We expect it to be the community hub of Silverdale.”

Kitsap Regional Library Foundation plans to raise $850,000 to purchase a 1.3-acre site at Bucklin Hill Road and Blaine Avenue by Nov. 25, 2015. The new library facility is planned to have more parking.

“We are especially grateful to the First Federal Community Foundation for being the first business to step up in support of this project.” said Jaime Forsyth, Executive Director, Kitsap Regional Library Foundation.

First Federal Community Foundation is currently accepting applications for its next round of funding. The deadline for submission of grant applications for this funding period is Sept. 1. Those interested can have a look at grant guidelines and the grant application form at www.firstfedcf.org.

First Federal Community Foundation is a private charitable corporation funded with a gift of cash and stock from First Northwest Bancorp, the parent company of First Federal Savings and Loan Association of Port Angeles. The Foundation provides funding for community support, affordable housing, economic development and community development in communities where First Federal operates a full-service branch.