LIBRARY FOR THE FUTURE

The library in Missoula isn’t just a good spot to read a Montana literary classic like A River Runs Through It—although with beautiful natural light and cozy seating, it is most definitely that. But it’s also a place to practice culinary skills (in the demonstration kitchen), create 3-D printed designs (in the MakerSpace), or browse awardwinning book collections (in the Tony Veazy Montana Room). Not only is the Missoula Public Library an incredible community resource, it also recently gained recognition on an international level. Competing against 20 libraries from 17 countries, MPL won World’s Best Library in 2022, the first North American library to earn this honor. The jury recognized MPL’s architecture for its exemplary sustainability, as well as its integration into the local landscape and culture. It’s a thoughtful, well-equipped environment for learning, and the demo kitchen and tool library are just two examples of the many innovative technologies at MPL. “It’s a library built for the future,” one jury chair commented, hitting the nail on the head. Take a virtual tour of the new facility at www.missoulapubliclibrary.org

For those who like to dog-ear pages and mark favorite passages, Missoula has no shortage of incredible independent bookstores including Shakespeare & Co., Book Exchange, Fact & Fiction, and T. Joyce Books. They also welcome a robust lineup of literary visitors, so make sure to check their events calendars.