The wait is over! MidPointe Library Liberty opened in June with much excitement and fanfare at its new facility at 6716 Yankee Road in Liberty Township. After enjoying six and a half years at Liberty Center mall, the branch has expanded into the third largest in the MidPointe System. The curved front of the modern structure welcomes the community with outstretched arms, a warm invitation into the long-awaited branch and all it has to offer. This state-of-the-art facility presents something for everyone.
“This is a space for everyone in the community, all ages and stages,” says MidPointe’s Community Engagement Director Cari Hillman. “We want everyone to find something that will benefit them here, whether it be a place to work or study, find something in this vast collection or enjoy a program.”
The carefully considered design, as carried out by LWC Incorporated, provides for every member of our busy and growing community. Its high ceilings and walls of windows allow a flood of natural light that greets patrons at the central entrance, then curves into surprising nooks and cozy play and work areas. Follow the color patterns of the carpet, designed to help patrons find their way—a yellow-brick-road experience that defines areas of the library: green for youth, purple for teens and orange for adults.
“We wanted something very functional, for all different ages,” explains MidPointe Executive Director Travis Bautz. “We really put a lot of thought into the layout.”
The new 21,000-square-foot facility allows space that doubles its programming. There’s a dramatic play area with monthly rotating themes, kid-sized seating, mini-carts for browsing the books and adult-sized chairs for parents. The Children’s Programming Room, a flexible space equipped with stacks of floor cushions and tables and chairs for little ones, can be set for crafts, story times and summer reading. The fenced Literacy Garden provides an open-air space for gardening, games and outdoor learning.
“These last few years, we've reimagined our programming for patrons,” says MidPointe Public Services Director Brielle Maynor. “I'm really excited to see, the different things that we can make happen now that we have our own space with dedicated spots for programming.”
Meeting space is in high demand in Liberty Township. MidPointe’s newest location houses three reservable meeting rooms. The Community Room is the largest with audio-visual features, a wall of windows and an attached kitchen. The Board Room and Conference Room are ideal for small groups and committees with large screens and executive seating. The seven Study Rooms are quiet spaces designed as remote work and study spots. Charging stations are available at every turn.
Don’t miss the cozy Quiet Reading Area, a seating space located just past the bank of computers, copiers and shelves of adult materials.
The MidPointe attention to detail extends beyond its walls. Curbside service is available during business hours. The landscaping is made up of native plants, the parking lot includes EV charging stations, 24-hour access to WiFi and a drive-through book drop.
MidPointe Library Liberty Branch Manager Ashley Kraus follows the branch to its new digs, along with its small but mighty staff.
“The same staff that people got to know at the mall location are here,” says Maynor. “We added one additional person that transferred from another branch. Everybody here is experienced library staff and are happy to help.”
There is no shushing at MidPointe Library Liberty—the goal for the new branch is to serve as a hub for living and learning. This new branch aspires to continue the MidPointe Library System’s vision of “Conecting a curious community,” and mission of “Enriching our community through access and experiences.”
“I love the bustle of lots of people in here,” reflects Bautz.
“When you put this much thought and effort into a building, you want people to come and use it,” agrees Kraus.
“This project is a fulfilled promise to the community,” Bautz adds. “It took a while to get here. We're just so excited!”
You are invited to experience the welcoming hub of MidPointe Library Liberty—find your fit in its new location. MidPointeLibrary.org
MidPointe Library Liberty
By the Numbers
Experience the newest branch of the MidPointe Library System:
- 30,000 items in circulation
- 21,000 square feet
- 24 hours per day + 7 days per week access to SmartLockers for pickups
- 7 Study Rooms
- 3 Reservable spaces for community meetings
- 2 EV Chargers
- 2 Copiers
- 2 Universal changing tables for adults with special needs
- 1 Automatic Handling Machine for quick returns
MidPointe Library Liberty is open Mondays-Thursdays, 10 a.m.-7 p.m. and Fridays-Saturdays, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.