To mark the grand opening of the newly renovated Newport Way Library, a community ribbon-cutting celebration will be held at 9:30 a.m. April 30, 9:30 a.m. at 14250 SE Newport Way, Bellevue. Community leaders, library staff, builders and residents are expected to be at the ceremony.

The $2.5 million project expanded the Newport Way Library by 790 square feet, thanks to a $172 million library capital bond approved by voters to fund major improvement projects at KCLS libraries.

The most visible enhancements to the exterior of the building are a new covered entryway with automated book drops and a cedar shake roof.

The slightly expanded interior features a “reading porch” with views of the surrounding wooded area and a cushioned window seat for children. The enlarged meeting room features a sliding glass door with art designed by glass artists Stuart Keeler and Michael Machnic.

Following the ribbon-cutting ceremony, the public is invited inside to tour the new library and enjoy refreshments. Musicians from a roaming music group, called The Toy Boats, will perform short songs throughout the facility using a toy piano, toy banjo and other small instruments.

The temporary library location at Factoria Mall will be closed permanently effective April 27 in preparation for the reopening of the library.