Des Moines: City Council Approves Funding for New Library

Des Moines City Council Approves Funding for State-of-the-Art LibraryDes Moines City Council Approves Funding for State-of-the-Art Library Des Moines, Iowa – The Des Moines City Council has unanimously approved a $75 million bond referendum to fund the construction of a new public library. The library, which will be named the “Des Moines Central Library,” will replace the aging Central Library in downtown Des Moines. The new library will be located in the Western Gateway development, a mixed-use project that includes housing, retail, and office space. The library will be a four-story, 150,000-square-foot facility that will house a wide range of services, including: * A large collection of books, audiobooks, and e-books * A dedicated children’s area * A teen center * A makerspace for hands-on learning * A cafe and meeting rooms The library will also feature a rooftop terrace with views of the city skyline. “This new library will be a transformative project for our city,” said Mayor Frank Cownie. “It will provide a modern, accessible, and inspiring space for residents of all ages to learn, create, and connect.” The Des Moines Central Library is expected to open in 2025. The project is being funded through a combination of bond revenue, private donations, and other sources. The approval of funding for the new library is a significant milestone for Des Moines. The city has been planning for a new library for several years, and the community has been actively involved in the process. The new library will be a major addition to the city’s cultural and civic landscape, and it will serve as a vital resource for generations to come.