From left to right: Hennepin County Commissioner Heather Edelson, Hennepin County Deputy County Administrator Dan Rogan, Hennepin County Commissioner Kevin Anderson, Hennepin County Administrator Jodi Wentland, and Hennepin County Library Director Scott Duimstra

Hennepin County, the City of Mound, and community partners gathered to celebrate the start of construction on the new Westonka Library on October 24. This project, rooted in shared values of learning, sustainability, and community connection, is a vision many years in the making.

Celebrating shared leadership

The event featured remarks from Hennepin County Commissioners and local leaders, who spoke about the importance of public spaces in fostering equity, access, and innovation. A ceremonial turning of the soil symbolized the collective investment in a future where everyone has the opportunity to learn and connect.

“This will be a space that reflects the values of this community: curiosity, inclusion and resilience. It will be a place where everyone feels welcome, where creativity is nurtured, and where knowledge is accessible to all,” said Hennepin County Commissioner Heather Edelson.

From left to right: City of Mound Council Member Sherrie Pugh, Hennepin County Commissioners Heather Edelson and Kevin Anderson, and City of Mound Mayor Jason HoltHennepin County Library team

More than a building

The groundbreaking event marked more than the beginning of construction. It celebrated a vision years in the making: a space where people of all ages will come to explore ideas, access resources, and build relationships. The new Westonka Library is designed to be a welcoming, inclusive place where curiosity and creativity thrive.

The Westonka Library has long served as a trusted resource and gathering place. The new facility will build on that legacy, offering a modern, adaptable space that continues to meet the evolving needs of the community. The new facility will include:

• Bright, flexible spaces for all ages
• Early learning and youth-focused zones
• Sustainable, net-zero energy design
• Community meeting room – a space that will be available for tutoring, book clubs, workshops, and neighborhood gatherings
• Improved accessibility and amenities
• Covered porches for gathering, reading, and relaxing
• A boardwalk path, garden terrace, and nature play area
• And more

A vision shaped by many

This project reflects years of planning and public engagement. Community input helped shape a design that prioritizes flexibility, accessibility, and sustainability. Every element, from gathering spaces to outdoor features, was informed by the needs and hopes of the Westonka community.

“Today’s groundbreaking is a celebration of collaboration. This library is the result of years of planning, listening and working together across agencies, departments, and communities,” said Hennepin County Commissioner Kevin Anderson.

Looking ahead

Construction will continue through next year. While the library is closed, patrons may visit the temporary holds pickup and return drop off location at Mound City Hall or visit alternate locations.

Project updates

Interested in receiving future updates on the project? Subscribe to the Westonka Library email list or visit the Westonka Library building project page.