Joplin sells former library building to Creative Learning Alliance
The city of Joplin has officially sold the old public library building to the Creative Learning Alliance, a local non-profit, who aims to create a hands-on, STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics) -based attraction.
CLA Executive Director Neely Myers says they want to create a place that exercises curiosity, promotes exploration, and develops imagination through interactivity.
Their hope is that after $6.5 million in renovations, the building will be ready to serve around 80,000 people per year sometime in 2025.
Located at 300 S. Main Street, the building was built in 1980 and housed the Joplin Public Library until 2017, when they moved into a new facility at 1901 East 20th Street. In January 2023, the City advertised the building for sale and solicited proposals from interested buyers. The Creative Learning Alliance paid $1 million for the property.
“This location represents a physical expansion from our temporary home at 905 Main St. AND allows us to stay in the heart of Joplin to serve our region and educate people of all ages with hands-on, STEAM-focused learning,” said Myers.
“The Creative Learning Alliance provides great opportunities for all ages and interests,” said Joplin Mayor Doug Lawson. “With the KCU Medical School and the new Dental School here in Joplin, this facility fits in well by exploring new educational opportunities while offering a fun and unique way to learn. We are very excited to have them as part of our downtown and wish them great success in their work.”
Lawson says downtown Joplin is currently undergoing a revival and this will be a “huge magnet” to bring people from all over the four-states to the downtown area.
