The design concept of the new library facility is based on Prairie Style design, which is encouraged and utilized by the community.  While the building design is reminiscent of the style, it does not imitate it.  It has its own proportion, dramatic use of windows and interior space.  The one story library with broad roofs and deep sheltering eaves, ribbons of clerestory windows and contrasting bands of stone coping, emphasize the buildings broad, horizontal lines.  The building has a residential character, yet the entrances are dramatic and grand in scale.

The facility abuts an existing building which had its exterior modified to blend with the new construction.  This existing building houses the Library Annex (a multi-purpose meeting room) and the Northeast Nebraska Community College (which offers various educational programs). In the link to this existing building, a privately managed Coffee House is located, a natural ingredient, making it possible for users to spend long hours at the library while drawing the public into this atmosphere, enhancing the library image as a pleasant community gathering center.

The library is light, airy and open.  Space flows freely between the Main Hall which is 20 feet high and various 9 foot high ceiling areas for reading and study, computer use and book stacks. 

Much of the library’s bright, friendly atmosphere comes from the large, curving window that gives the building a visual focal point on its prominent east side along the cities main street, Dakota Avenue. At this light-filled haven, the children’s area is located where they will love to sit in the bay pillow-filled window seat and read as the traffic passes by.