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, according to a release.

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,” Mesa Mayor Mark Freeman said in the release. “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, Richärd Kennedy Architects, our community and the many partners who brought Gateway Library to life,” Mesa Public Library Director Polly Bonnett said. “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 in Busan, South Korea. The annual award recognizes newly built libraries that set international benchmarks for accessibility, sustainability, flexibility and user experience.

Gateway Library, 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.