A move is on to preserve one of the most architecturally interesting library buildings in Phoenix.
Built in 1969 at a cost of $264,000, the Acacia Library at 750 E. Townley Avenue is regarded as an architectural treasure owing to is sleek modernistic design and structural details.
At the time of its construction, the Arizona Republic made note of the building’s exterior, composed of “slump cement blocks resembling unburnt adobe.” The structure replaced a library for the Sunnyslope neighborhood that was an old house.
Design elements in the structure include an emphasis on wood, stone, and big windows, as well as multi-colored mosaic tiles arranged to look like books on a shelf.
Measuring around 6,600 square feet, the library was designed by the architectural firm of Bennie Gonzales & Associates. Gonzales was known for emphasizing what was called “Spanish-derived architecture” in his work.
One of the first Hispanics registered as an architect in Arizona, Gonzales designed more than 300 structures in the Southwest, especially focusing on libraries, museums, and other public structures.
The Sunnyslope Historical Society is now in the process of trying to secure historical status for the Acacia Library, which would mean that it can’t be demolished or even altered without the approval of the city.
The historical status of the building is expected to be initially determined by the Phoenix Historic Preservation Office before going up for review before the city’s Historic Preservation Commission.
A statement released by the Phoenix Public Library system has said that the Acacia Library “holds significant value across generations within the community.” A historic designation, continued the statement, would acknowledge the library’s “relevance and responsiveness over the years.”
December 22, 2025
By Garry Boulard
Photo courtesy of the City of Phoenix
