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Frequently Asked Questions

You've heard about the proposed stabilization and restoration of the Bondurant Library. But you may also have noticed a lot of conflicting information flying around the Basin about the project.

Put your mind at ease: Following is everything you ever wanted to know about the Bondurant Library Restoration Project.

Is the Library Restoration Committee proposing to move the back door?

No. The back door - and the front door and the two interior doors - will remain exactly where they are. The back door and one middle doorway will be widened for ADA access.

What's ADA?

ADA is the "Americans With Disabilities Act", a federal law that we must follow. It requires that doorways be 36" wide, for unimpeded access to all.

Speaking of access, why not run the ramp out the front door?

Because the ramp has to be 18' long to make up the elevation difference between the outside grade and the inside floor. In front, an 18' ramp will impede traffic flow to the BBQ serving line and/or parking area. Instead, the Committee proposes a landing across the back of the building outside the back door, leading to the ramp along the left (northwest) side of the Library, heading conveniently in the direction of the parking area.

Why does the ramp have to be 18' long?

Because ramps must be 1:12 (one foot run for every one inch rise) according to the required International Building Code (IBC). All new construction and all remodels must adhere to IBC standards, despite that Sublette County does not have a building inspector. The Code also applies to any updates made to the electrical system.

Don't you think two hundred thousand dollars is too much for that building?

Yes, we do. Fortunately, the cost proposal is ninety-two thousand.

Is it true that the Committee is going to take out a huge construction loan and the BCC will be plunged into debt?

Good gad, no! The Library Committee has never contemplated such a thing. We insist the project be "pay-as-you-go".

Is it true you propose to alter the interior?

It is not our intention to move any walls or doorways or windows. Some collateral damage may occur during restoration: some paneling will need to be removed to permit interior cross-bracing, and the floor may be too rotted to save, thus will need replacing. Also, some adaptations will need to be made for updated electrical wiring and fixtures (see IBC, above).

Why didn't you send the project out to bid?

We did send the project out to bid. Although no local contractors contacted us to express interest, we located three qualified local contractors experienced in jacking and moving historic log structures and replacing and repairing rotted logs. Three bid packages were distributed; two were returned. Mill Iron Timberworks was the low bidder.

What do you mean "moving" a log structure?

The building will have to be lifted and moved out of the way in order to excavate and pour a new concrete footer and to stack a mortared block foundation. Then it will be moved back onto its new foundation where it will stay - hopefully for the next 100 years.

But the Library is so OLD! Why do we want to save it?

Because it's wonderful. Because not everybody has a historic log structure in their back yard, and those who do don't make those buildings available to the community. Because the Library has meant so much to so many people. Because the BBQ will be a lot of trouble and not much fun without it. Because we would be wise to NOT teach our children that because something is old and troublesome it should be thrown away for something new.

Still, couldn't we build a nice shiny new log building for less money?

No, not in this lifetime. A new 560 square foot log structure would cost at least $110,000 at the current rate.

Also, the land on which Church and Library reside is owned by the U.S. Forest Service, and the buildings were constructed under a 1940 Special Use Permit. No one can construct a new building on that land, any more than anyone can go out onto the National Forest lands and build a house.

The Feds! Why don't we just do a land swap with the Forest Service and then we can do whatever we want with the property?

Because that process takes years, and by then the Library will be gone.

Why don't we just buy some land with highway frontage and build a new building on it?

Because acreage, even without a building on it, is not affordable. Especially not a nice parcel with highway frontage and plenty of room for parking - rent free. Currently, the Library and Church are on land that WE THE PEOPLE already own.

What will the building be used for when it's restored?

It's been considered as a historic center for POPS and other memorabilia, small meeting room, etc. Several people have asked for a lending or exchange Library. Once the building is stabilized, it will be useful for many purposes.

What if I want to know more or if I have a suggestion about the Library?

We hope you will contact a member of the Bondurant Library Restoration Committee. Check the BCC Directory for our contact info or click a link below to send an email:

We are happy to meet all of your library question needs.

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT.

FAQs created July 2010.

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