The City of Mesa is preparing for the grand opening of its new Gateway Library by hosting a series of preview events on Saturdays in November. The Gateway Library, located at 5036 S. Eastmark Parkway, will be the city’s first new full-service library in over 25 years.
Each Saturday event will run from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m., with storytime scheduled for 10 a.m. Attendees can explore the library’s outdoor spaces, participate in family activities, and sign up for library cards.
The preview events are scheduled as follows: On November 15, families can experience hands-on science and history lessons provided by the Arizona Museum of Natural History’s Mobile Education and Discovery Machine. On November 22, Mesa Fire and Medical Department’s mini fire truck “Ember,” built to honor the department’s 125th anniversary, will be present. The final preview on November 29 features educational programs from Mesa Parks and Recreation’s Outdoor Recreation Experience van, along with an appearance by Santa.
Library staff will also offer on-site library card registration starting November 17 on Mondays (9 a.m.-12 p.m.), Wednesdays (1 p.m.-4 p.m.), and Fridays (9 a.m.-12 p.m.).
The official grand opening is set for December 6 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., including a ribbon cutting ceremony and additional family activities.
Covering about 28,000 square feet, the Gateway Library includes an open design with features such as a multipurpose room, collaborative makerspace called THINKspot, digital art display wall, outdoor reading patios, and an event plaza.
Funding for this project comes from voter-approved general obligation bonds issued in 2018 as well as construction sales tax revenue. Willmeng Construction is responsible for building the facility based on designs by Richrd Kennedy Architects.
More information about the Gateway Library can be found at mesalibrary.org/gateway.
