It’s hard to make everyone happy, especially on Vashon, but we think the county library system has come close with its newly remodeled branch at Ober Park, which was unveiled last weekend.

Readers, the library’s traditional audience, will be pleased that the library has the same number of books and that shelves are much easier to navigate. Families will love the new children’s area, and many will appreciate the abundant space to hold meetings or events, study or work in a quiet place. For those moving to digital, ebooks are easier to access than ever and plug-ins for laptops and other devices are everywhere. The new library seems to strike a balance between providing printed material and moving into the digital age.

How much sweeter that the library’s opening was precluded by the unveiling of a new high school building last year. Both places will serve local youth well, and both buildings have badly needed meeting spaces that can be utilized by community groups.

As we celebrate the new library, it’s notable to look back on the somewhat tumultuous path that got us here. Early in the process, the King County Library System, facing obstacles at Ober Park, planned to move the library south of town to the K2 site and in 2008 even had a written agreement to do so. However, many opposed the move, and in true Vashon style, they petitioned the county until it reversed its decision. How coincidental that the island is now engrossed in another debate involving potential development at K2. While Vashon is seemingly split over the prospect of a marijuana company at K2, in 2008 there were few who wanted the library to move there, and seeing the newly remodeled space now, it’s easy to understand why. It makes sense for a library to be located in the heart of town, and we’re glad Vashon residents spoke up to keep it there. And how much better that out library is also at a park. The library is now more connected to Ober Park than ever. Large windows lining the front of the building, where people can sit and work, look out on the front lawn, and the meeting room overlooks trees. Parents can actually see the Ober Park playground from the library’s new children’s area.

There are few shared community spaces on Vashon. With more to offer than ever, we expect the library will soon stand out on that short list as a true community hub.