news & updates
news & updates
Gateway Library, located at 5036 S. Eastmark Parkway in southeast Mesa, has been shortlisted for the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions/James Bennett (IFLA) Public Library of the Year Award for 2026.
The IFLA Public Library of the Year award celebrates global excellence in public library design, innovation and community impact, recognizing the most inspiring new public libraries.
Following a rigorous evaluation process, the jury shortlisted four outstanding libraries for this year's award. The libraries, listed in alphabetical order, are:
•Library+ Caloundra, Sunshine Coast, Australia
•Mesa Gateway Library, Arizona, United States of America
•West Las Vegas Library, Nevada, United States of America
•Xiong'An Library, Hebei Province, China
Each year, the award shines a spotlight on newly built libraries that set new international benchmarks for accessibility, sustainability, flexibility and user experience.
"We are incredibly honored for the Gateway Library to be recognized on the international stage," said Polly Bonnett, Mesa Public Library Director. "The vision for this library was to create a beacon to bring the community together and a gateway to connect to the wider world. The building's thoughtful design makes it possible for us to provide innovative library services that will impact generations to come."
The Gateway Library was designed by Mesa native Kevin Kolden, Associate Principal of Richrd Kennedy Architects. The state-of-the-art facility, which was Mesa's first new full-service library in 30 years, is approximately 28,000 square feet and features an open concept that was inspired by open-air markets around the world. Soaring wood ceilings, floor-to-ceiling windows and natural materials connect the interior to the surrounding landscape. The library includes a multi-purpose room, THINKspot collaborative makerspace and specific areas for library books and resources for adults, teens and children. Other features include a digital art display wall, outdoor reading patio and outdoor plaza that can be used for community events.
The Gateway Library was recently awarded the International Interior Design Association (IIDA) and the American Library Association (ALA). The biennial IIDA/ALA competition recognizes excellence in library interior design and promotes examples of creative design concepts.
The new library opened Dec. 6, 2025. Funding for the Gateway Library was from both the 2018 General Obligation Bond approved by voters and construction sales tax. The library was built by Willmeng Construction.
The IFLA Public Library of the Year Award ceremony will take place Aug. 10, 2026 as part of the 90th IFLA World Library and Information Congress (WLIC), in Busan, South Korea. The winner of the award receives $5,000 and international recognition as the IFLA/James Bennett Public Library of the Year 2026.