Mesa's Gateway Library Named World's Best New Public Library

Mesa's Gateway Library Named World's Best New Public Library

Mesa Gateway Library has been named the world's best new public library, winning the 2026 International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions/James Bennett Public Library of the Year Award.

The award recognizes excellence in public library design, innovation and community impact. Gateway Library was selected from an international field of 19 entries representing nine countries and four finalists from the United States, Australia and China.

IFLA praised Gateway Library as "a refreshing forward-thinking take on what a great library could be," highlighting its role as a community hub and shared space for reading and innovation, as well as its distinctive design and welcoming environment.

"This is a proud moment for the City of Mesa, our dedicated staff and the residents who helped make Gateway Library possible," said Mesa Mayor Mark Freeman. "It has been more than 30 years since Mesa built a new library, and this award is a tremendous recognition of what we can accomplish when our community comes together. We owe a special thanks to our voters for supporting the bond that made this project possible and to everyone who worked to bring this vision to life."

"This recognition celebrates the vision and dedication of our Mesa team, Richrd Kennedy Architects, our community and the many partners who brought Gateway Library to life," said Polly Bonnett, Mesa Public Library Director. "We are proud to have created a destination that fosters community and connection, sparks curiosity and inspires discovery and imagination for generations to come."

The award was presented Aug. 10 during the 90th IFLA World Library and Information Congress (WLIC) in Busan, South Korea. The annual award recognizes newly built libraries that set international benchmarks for accessibility, sustainability, flexibility and user experience.

The state-of-the-art facility is approximately 28,000 square feet and features an open concept 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.

Gateway Library was designed by Arizona-based Richrd Kennedy Architects. Mesa native Kevin Kolden, Associate Principal and Designer at the firm, said, "It's an incredible honor to see Gateway recognized on an international stage. This was a true collaboration, and I'm incredibly proud of what our team and the City of Mesa created together. Gateway is a world-class library that reflects its community and the people it serves."

The library includes a multipurpose room, THINKspot collaborative makerspace and dedicated areas with books and resources for adults, teens and children. Other features include a digital art display wall, outdoor reading patio and plaza for community events.

"This recognition is a great reflection of the talent, dedication and collaboration of our library staff and the architects who brought this vision to life," said Mesa City Manager Scott Butler. "Gateway Library represents what is possible when we bring together great design, innovative thinking and a commitment to serving our community. We are proud to see the hard work of everyone involved recognized on the world stage."

Gateway Library, located at 5036 S. Eastmark Parkway in southeast Mesa, opened Dec. 6, 2025. Funding for the new library came from the 2018 General Obligation Bond approved by Mesa voters and construction sales tax revenues. The library was built by Willmeng Construction.