By Peri Kinder | [email protected]

Libraries have evolved from just book-lending to become places of community connection, and the new Daybreak Library takes that even a step further. With its state-of-the-art features and net-zero carbon footprint, the library accurately represents the transit-oriented, pedestrian-friendly community of Daybreak.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony on April 30 celebrated the new library with local leaders, Salt Lake County officials and community members in attendance. The 28,000 square-foot building includes a rooftop patio, an outdoor plaza and amphitheater, and thousands of books.

Robin Chalhoub, Associate Director of Community Services for Salt Lake County, is excited to invite Daybreak residents to the library. “We continue to offer expanded services across the county,” she said. “We have the incredible resources the library is known for and this will be a unique place for the Daybreak community.”

Although construction slowed down during COVID and supply-chain issues hindered progress, the finished library reflects the area’s New Urbanism focus. With easy access to TRAX services, and with homes and shopping areas nearby, patrons can ride, bike or walk to the library and enjoy its unique features.

Daybreak Library has a recording studio, a bike repair station, digital design tools and several meeting areas and study rooms. A drought-tolerant, Native-plant landscaped path winds its way to the roof where visitors can enjoy the view while sitting under a solar-panel canopy. The library’s entrance features an art installation that includes benches with poetry.

“The library system has really blossomed," said Salt Lake County Councilmember David Alvord. “The concept of community has evolved and a library is the center of that.”

The Salt Lake County Library system has 17 community libraries along the Wasatch Front and has received numerous awards since its inception in 1939. As more residents move to the Salt Lake Valley, the county library will continue to expand, providing valuable reading materials, resources, meeting spaces and community connection.

“It’s all about community and I want to thank the citizens of the Daybreak community who met with us many times,” said Salt Lake County Library Director Jim Cooper. “There are plenty of people to thank but the most important ones are [community residents].”