Missoula Public Library Has Won Another Prestigious Award

How fitting for the Missoula Public Library to earn an award during National Library Week.

According to a press release from the Missoula Public Library, "The American Institute of Architects announced Tuesday that Missoula Public Library is one of five winners of the 2023 AIA/ALA Library Building Awards, presented in partnership with the American Library Association."

This is the Missoula Public Library's Second Major Award

Back in July of 2022, the library was essentially named the best library in the world when it won the Public Library of the Year Award from the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions. In an interview with KGVO, the library Executive Director Slaven Lee attributed the award to the library's designers, Minneapolis-based MSR Design and the local architecture firm, A&E Design.

Features of the Missoula Public Library's Design

For any visitor to the library, the use of light and an appreciation for sweeping views were apparent in the design. From the fourth floor, visitors can step onto a patio that offers an elevated and unique view of Missoula that many people haven't seen unless they've lived on the upper floors of Missoula's downtown apartments.

But the design wasn't just about aesthetics. There are also educational integrations that make the library an excellent resource for the community. Those features include:

• MakerSpace
• Demonstration Kitchen
• Tony Veazy Montana Room
• UM Living Lab
• SpectrUM
• Families First Learning Lab
• MCAT

If you haven't visited the new Missoula Public Library there are several events in May that may be of interest to the general public, including a presentation from an astronaut.

Congratulations to all involved.