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The Fort Vancouver Regional Library District has hired Portland-based FFA Architecture and Interiors to perform pre-design for new branch libraries in Washougal, Woodland and Ridgefield, Wash.

Existing branches in these communities are too small, FVRL Executive Director Nancy Tessman said, adding that they were identified in a 2013 district facilities study as high priorities for replacement.

“They are really just not adequate, which the district has known for some time,” she said.

FFA staffers will help the district find adequate sites and determine the best layouts for three projects estimated to cost between $3.5 million and $4 million each, Tessman said.

“We’ll be working with FFA to really articulate what the building programs should be … Just really helping us describe more fully what it is we’re looking for,” she said.

District officials wanted an emphasis on community involvement in the design process, and FFA fit the bill.

“They’ve had a substantial amount of experience working in smaller, rural communities, which are kind of unique,” Tessman said. “We’re not looking for three cookie-cutter projects.”

The library district has set aside $1.5 million ($500,000 each) for the planned branch projects. Private fundraising and a bond measure could help cover remaining costs, Tessman said.