City officials and board members of the Friends of the Library lined up to cut the ribbon on the new Winslow library, which opened last Saturday. Pictured are (left to right) Mayor Birdie Cano, Lisa Maclean, Eleanore Hempsey, Fern Benally, Kathy Contreras, Brandee Leary, Ted Pate, Marianne Richardson and Kim Gould.
City officials and board members of the Friends of the Library lined up to cut the ribbon on the new Winslow library, which opened last Saturday. Pictured are (left to right) Mayor Birdie Cano, Lisa Maclean, Eleanore Hempsey, Fern Benally, Kathy Contreras, Brandee Leary, Ted Pate, Marianne Richardson and Kim Gould. Photo by Richard Larson
The new library has spaces within that are ideal for parents and their young kids to both enjoy what the library has to offer.
Mayor Birdie Cano visits with community members inside Winslow’s new library.
It was a full house for the opening of new Winslow Public Library, as area residents celebrated this exciting new space for learning and development.

Winslow Public Library reopened its doors last Saturday with a grand celebration marking the unveiling of its new building. The library was closed for two weeks to carefully move its entire book collection to the new building, ensuring that everything was in place for a smooth transition and an exciting new chapter for the community. The new library is located at 617 W. 2nd St., next door to the chamber of commerce.

City leaders and community members gathered to mark the occasion. A large crowd gathered outside the library for the ceremony. Mayor Birdie Cano expressed enthusiasm about the new facility and its potential to serve the community in fresh and meaningful ways. Navajo County Supervisor Alberto Peshlakai, who originally helped secure funding for the project, also spoke at the event stating. “This library is more than just a building filled with books; it is a beacon of knowledge, a hub for community engagement, and a gateway to endless opportunities for learning and growth.” Although Peshlakai no longer represents Winslow following the district redraw in 2022, his contribution to the library’s development was acknowledged during the ceremony.

Library Development Director Holly Henley, for the Arizona State Library, addressed the crowd about the positive impact a well-equipped library can have on the community. Henley also read a proclamation from the Arizona Secretary of State Adrian Fontes office celebrating the new library, highlighting the significance of this achievement.

Head Librarian Brandee Leary kept her remarks brief before proceeding with the ribbon cutting that officially opened the building. The event also saw several children and adults receiving their library cards for the first time, marking a day of new beginnings for many in the community.

The new facility offers a range of upgraded features designed with community needs in mind. Residents now have access to an upgraded children’s section, a kitchen, a conference room, private study rooms, additional computers, and more comfortable areas to sit and read. The project was funded using American Rescue Plan Act funds, provided by both the City of Winslow and Navajo County during the COVID-19 pandemic to support community projects. The library did not require an increase cost on the taxpayers to make happen.

With its modern amenities and renewed focus on community engagement, the new Winslow Public Library is set to become a vibrant hub for learning and connection for residents of all ages.