Maricopa County is ponying up some serious cash for bookworms in the North Valley, making a splash with a $4 million investment in a spacious new library. The Board of Supervisors green-lighted the upgrade for the North Valley Regional Library, aiming to keep pace with the area's rapid population boom – Anthem, New River, et al. – according to Maricopa County.

Supervisor Bill Gates of District 3 articulated the urgent need for this refurbishment, saying to Maricopa County, "The Board’s investment is a step towards ensuring that the North Valley Regional Library is better prepared to offer top-of-the-line community services for the 45,000 people who call this area home." Previously cohabiting with Boulder Creek High School with limited after-school hours, the library now spreads its wings in its very own 27,188-square-foot property at 41810 N. Venture Dr. in Anthem, as per the Maricopa County.

The new digs were a media company's old roost, which means the place is tricked out with some serious tech. These new upgrades, funded by Maricopa County Community Solutions Funding through December 31, 2024, will make the space even more reader-friendly. We're talking about a layout that knocks down walls for events, study rooms, and some peace and quiet – plus the obligatory teen and kiddie zones. Jeremy Reeder, the big cheese at the Maricopa County Library District, buzzed about the better sightlines and staffing opportunities that come with the redesign. "I am excited to see how this thoughtful and intentional design will help us better serve the community," Reeder said, in a statement obtained by the Maricopa County.

Once opened, library-goers will have at their fingertips a curated collection of books, audiobooks, movies, and tunes – all served up to fit every age and interest under the sun. And don't think this is some slapdash assortment; professional librarians using a nationwide best practices policy have given each item the stamp of approval.