The drive through window at the new Mesquite/Clark County Library will allow even those who “don’t have time” the convenience of using the library services. Photo by Teri Nehrenz

The groundbreaking was nearly a year ago, the project is on schedule and the new Clark County Library-Mesquite Branch will soon be celebrating its grand opening, which is scheduled to be held on May 31.

The old library, which was cozy, served its purpose but was outdated, is getting a facelift to keep up with the times and the programs and will still be well utilized.

The new library has all the major building hurdles out of the way with just the finishing touches needing to be completed and will give the community an updated, modern and open indoor space along with the addition of new “outdoor” spaces.

The indoor spaces will include a special section for children that is open, colorful and comfortable for lounging and reading as well as roomy spaces for the various children’s activities and story times the library sponsors. Adult learning will be a breeze for anyone who wishes to take advantage of the new computers and stations that will be available for their use along with all the instructional classes they offer.

If it is quiet reading time parents will be wanting, the new glass enclosed living room/lounge area will be the perfect place for them to find comfort and solitude while still enjoying the view outdoors and of the interior space where their children will be participating in their own various activities.

The new Plaza area will be located between the old and new buildings and offer a comfortable area for community members to enjoy. While there are curbs to control traffic speed, First South St. will remain open to traffic. Photo by Teri Nehrenz

Outdoorsy people will most certainly find the new outdoor spaces comfortable and hopefully cool on those hot summer days. There will be plenty of chairs, tables, sunny and shady areas to accommodate even the most discerning outdoor readers in a beautifully landscaped area.

The plaza area will be located between the old and new buildings and offer a large, open and comfortable area for community members to enjoy. While there are curbs to control traffic speed, First South St. will remain open to traffic.

Do you get the munchies when you read? Don’t worry, there’s even a café to help you curb those cravings. The café will be run by an individual who has help from the Nevada Department of Employment, Training and Rehabilitation.

The old library space is being redesigned and will house the main offices for Workforce Connections as well as meeting and training space that they desperately need for the succession of the program; they also need participants so if you’re looking for a change, check them out. Training is available in nearly any category you may have interest in but you must qualify.  Stop in to see if you do; you may have nothing to lose and everything to gain.

The new library, before opening, has already won an award:

According to the city web site, “Under the “Unbuilt” category, a Citation Award was presented to Simpson Coutler Studios for the new Mesquite Library design. This award was given by the American Institute of Architects (AIA) Nevada Excellence In Design.”

Yes Mesqutie, the new library will be an absolute joy for those who use the library on a regular basis and maybe a new hang out for those who haven’t yet had the opportunity to enjoy all the many programs Clark County has to offer you. For those who don’t have time to stop in, just drive through.  Yes, there’s even a drive through window; you can order your book online and pick it up in your P.J.’s if you want to.  Whether you’re a ‘first timer’ or a ‘long timer’, you’re gonna love it!