A former barracks from Williams Field Air Force Base has stood the test of time and continues to change purposes as needs arise. In 1988, the building was placed on land donated by John and Mary Lou Smith as a permanent home for the community library, which had been in several spaces around town. Upon incorporation, it was clear Maricopa needed a larger library for its booming population. When that building was constructed on Smith-Enke Road, the old barracks became the Maricopa Veterans Center in 2009. Imminently, when the new public library is completed off White and Parker Road, the veterans will move into the Smith-Enke building, and the barracks may welcome new residents – the Maricopa Historical Society.
