In 2008, Alaska State Statute 14.56.355.356 was enacted into law establishing the Public Library Construction and Major Expansion Matching Grant Program. Eligible library projects may apply to the State of Alaska for grants to fund up to fifty-percent of construction costs.

Clearly seeing an emerging opportunity for a new library facility, the Friends of the Ketchikan Public Library encouraged the City of Ketchikan to apply to The Foraker Group Pre-Development Program for services to assist in determining the feasibility of a new library.

The Rasmuson Foundation sponsored the City of Ketchikan's participation in the Foraker Group Pre-Development Program.