NEWTON, Kan. (KSNW) – A $10 million library in Newton is complete and opens to the public Monday at 10 a.m. The 30,000-square-foot facility is southeast of the old library.

On Dec. 27, 2022, the Newton City Commission voted to accept a bid for the construction of the new library, and the ground was broken in early 2023.

The new facility includes a children’s library with a learn-play-grow area, early literacy computers, and a family restroom and nursing room.

The new teen area has a game zone and book collection. There are also six study rooms and a digital access lab for individuals and small groups to collaborate, work, study, and create. There is a covered outdoor seating area leading into Military Park. The layout of the park and additional parking will allow events such as outdoor movie nights, concerts, block parties, and farmer’s markets.

It is accessible, one level and offers a drive-through window. Services such as public computers, faxing, newspapers, books, media and more are more efficient and appealing.

The City of Newton committed $4.5 million to the project, and Newton Public Library committed $2.7 million. The community contributed about $3.3 million.