Two doctors representing Silver Falls Dermatology have offered $1.6 million in cash to buy the Albany Public Library building at 1390 Waverly Drive S.E.

The company has offices in Woodburn, Salem and McMinnville.

The Albany City Council learned of the offer Wednesday and authorized City Manager Wes Hare to negotiate the sale.

Hare said he will meet with the city's real estate agent, Dennis Dunmyer of Coldwell Banker Valley Brokers, this afternoon to iron out purchase details. "It will basically be an earnest money agreement," he said.

The city wants to sell the 18,300-square-foot library because the main branch is moving across the street into the former Unitrin and Valley Insurance building. Proceeds from the sale will help pay for the new library's renovation.

The city was able to buy the 41,000-square-foot building after an anonymous donor pledged $5 million.

The purchase contract with Silver Falls Dermatology will include a time cushion for when the buyers can take over the library. Right now, the goal is to have the new library renovated by Jan. 31, 2009. The work probably will be done by then but the city might need additional time for the move.

The 32-year-old main branch has been for sale since May 2006, with a $1.8 million asking price.

Even though the offer is below the asking price, Hare was pleased considering the tough economic times. He also believes the site is a good location for a medical building as similar facilities are close by.

Hare also will be delighted to have the property back on the tax rolls.

Library Director Ed Gallagher said this morning the purchase proposal is "a pretty strong offer, and they are very committed to buying the building, and we are excited about that."

Gallagher said the roof on the new library is on, and the next step is to put the heating and cooling units up there.

After that, workers will install gypsum wallboard and apply finishes to the first floor. Then crews will start the same process on the second floor.