Peoria to unveil renovated main library later this month

PHOENIX — The city of Peoria announced Wednesday it will unveil the renovated main library with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and a tour on Jan. 29.

The renovation of the library at 8463 W. Monroe St. began in June and was the first since the facility’s construction in 1991, previously just receiving updated furniture, fixed seating and ADA enhancements, the city said in a press release.

Among the upgrades to Peoria’s main library are a new lobby, skylight, front desk, exterior patio and other design improvements, the city said.

The building also received a new roof, HVAC system and fire alarm system.

“Peoria’s libraries are at the heart of our community,” Nathaniel Washburn, Peoria library manager, said in the release.

“By investing in and reinventing our libraries, we are providing beautiful, safe spaces for people of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds to learn and connect with each other and the world of knowledge.”

Funding for the renovation of the library came from Peoria’s 10-year Capital Improvement Program, the city said.

The library stayed open during the renovation process.

The Peoria Public Library System has another facility – the Sunrise Mountain Library – at 21109 N. 98th Ave. Both libraries offer residents of Peoria and Maricopa County as a whole access to thousands of books, audiobooks, e-books, music, films and e-resources, the city said.

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