Merriam Plaza Library, the newest Johnson County Library branch, will officially open on March 20, 2024. A ribbon cutting ceremony is scheduled for 9 a.m. that morning, with speakers to follow.

The Merriam Plaza Library (6120 Slater St., Merriam) is co-located on a shared campus with the Merriam Community Center. It was designed with input from the community at several public engagement sessions, and construction began in late 2022.

The new facility replaces the Antioch Library branch, which opened in 1956 as the Library system's first official location. Antioch Library will permanently close as of Jan. 29, 2024 to transfer materials--including more than 67,000 Library items--and equipment around the corner to the new building. Library users are encouraged to visit one of the Library's other 13 locations during the transition period for returns, access to the collection, and public computers.

Merriam Plaza Library’s features include:

• A convenient drive-thru lane for holds pickup and materials return
• Updated A/V technology in the meeting and study rooms
• A variety of comfortable spaces for work and play
• A dedicated kid's area emphasizing early literacy
• A covered outdoor patio leading a shared plaza with the Merriam Community Center
• An eco-friendly green roof with over 7,000 native plantings
• Large windows with natural light

More information will be shared in the coming weeks at jocolibrary.org/merriam. A media preview day will be scheduled the week prior to Merriam Plaza's opening.