Mesa is celebrating a major international achievement after its newest library earned one of the highest honors in the public library world.
Gateway Library in southeast Mesa has been named the 2026 IFLA/James Bennett Public Library of the Year, recognizing the facility for its design, innovation, sustainability and impact on the community. The award was presented August 10 during the 90th IFLA World Library and Information Congress in Busan, South Korea.
Gateway Library Stands Out on the World Stage
The international award is presented by the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA) and James Bennett to recognize outstanding newly built public libraries.
Gateway Library was selected from 19 applications representing nine countries, ultimately becoming one of four finalists alongside libraries in Australia, China and the United States. IFLA’s evaluation focused on qualities including accessibility, sustainability, flexibility, user experience, technology and community impact.
IFLA described Mesa Gateway Library as a forward-thinking interpretation of what a modern library can be, emphasizing its role as more than a place to borrow books. The organization highlighted the facility’s community spaces, technology, flexible areas for learning and engagement, and its connection to the surrounding Arizona landscape.
A Modern Library Designed Around Community
Gateway Library covers approximately 28,000 square feet and uses an open-concept design influenced by open-air markets around the world. The building incorporates natural materials, large windows and high wood ceilings to create a bright, welcoming environment connected to the surrounding landscape.
The library was designed by Arizona-based Richärd Kennedy Architects, whose work helped create a space that combines traditional library services with modern technology and collaborative areas.
The facility includes resources and spaces for children, teens and adults, along with a multipurpose room and the THINKspot collaborative makerspace. There is also an interactive digital art display, outdoor reading space and a plaza designed for community activities.
The library’s official information also highlights several additional features, including a sensory room, nursing room, outdoor programming areas and exterior hold lockers that allow patrons to pick up reserved materials around the clock.
Technology Is a Major Part of the Experience
Gateway Library was designed with today’s library users in mind, incorporating technology throughout the building.
Its THINKspot makerspace provides access to equipment such as 3D printers, sewing and embroidery machines, a Glowforge laser cutter, podcast equipment, vinyl cutters and a creative studio. These resources give residents opportunities to learn, create and collaborate beyond traditional library services.
The facility also features an interactive digital art installation known as Pixel Paseo, along with self-service technology and other features intended to make library access more convenient.
Mesa’s First New Full-Service Library in Decades
The international recognition is particularly significant for Mesa because Gateway Library represents the city’s first new full-service library branch in roughly three decades.
The project was made possible through funding approved by Mesa voters through the 2018 Bond Election for Arts and Culture. The library officially opened with a grand-opening celebration on December 6, 2025.
The groundbreaking ceremony took place in May 2024, when Mesa Public Library described the planned facility as a state-of-the-art branch designed to provide innovative services and programs to southeast Mesa.
Located in the Heart of Southeast Mesa
Gateway Library is located at 5036 S. Eastmark Parkway in Mesa, serving residents in southeast Mesa and the surrounding communities.
The location places the library within the Eastmark area, where it provides both indoor and outdoor spaces overlooking the surrounding park and lake. Eastmark describes the facility as a 28,000-square-foot community destination with spaces for learning, creativity, gatherings and families.
The library is already being used for a wide range of community programming, including children’s activities, educational programs, creative workshops and sensory-friendly events.
More Recognition for Gateway Library
The IFLA award isn’t Gateway Library’s first major recognition.
The facility was also recognized in the 2026 Library Interior Design Awards, with Gateway Public Library listed among the winning projects in the public libraries category for facilities of 30,000 square feet and under. The project was credited to Richärd Kennedy Architects with White Baux Studio.
That growing list of accolades underscores how the project is gaining attention not only for its architecture, but also for the way it reimagines what a neighborhood library can offer.
A New Community Landmark for Mesa
Gateway Library’s international award puts a spotlight on a facility that was created specifically to serve the local community.
With flexible gathering spaces, technology-focused resources, outdoor areas, children’s and teen services, makerspace facilities and traditional library collections, the branch combines many functions under one roof.
Its recognition as the 2026 IFLA/James Bennett Public Library of the Year also puts southeast Mesa on an international stage and highlights the investment Mesa residents made in creating a new community resource.
For a city that went more than 30 years without opening a new full-service library, Gateway Library represents a significant addition—and now it has a global award to match.
Bottom Line
Mesa’s Gateway Library has earned international recognition as the 2026 Public Library of the Year, standing out among new libraries from around the world for its innovative design, technology, sustainability and community-focused approach.
The award is another milestone for southeast Mesa and a strong reminder of how new community amenities can contribute to the area’s continued growth and appeal.
