Conceptually, borrowing from the symbiotic relationship between a young Saguaro and a nurse tree, the building's large roof creates a nurturing microclimate for growth, providing shelter and protection from the weather. Designed to fit into the desert site with a minimum of disturbance, the facility has been LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certified by the United States Green Building Council.

Desert Broom Library features a First Five Years/Los Primeros Cinco Años interactive learning space for families with young children, Teen Corner - a special "teen only" area, WiFi and Internet-accessible public computers.  The library's collection of newspapers and magazines, books, DVDs and CDs is designed to meet community members' educational and recreational needs.  A multi-purpose room for community meetings as well as library programs seats 50.

Awards

• 2004 Merit Award, Design Awards category, AIA Arizona 
• 2005 Pride Award, Commercial Best of Show, IIDA, Southwest Chapter Design Competition
• 2005 Honor Award (overall design excellence), AIA, Western Mountain Region
• 2005 Valley Forward Association, Crescordia Award for Environmental Excellence, Buildings & Structures - Public Assembly
• 2005 Grand Award Best In The West, Best Public/Private Special Use Facility, Gold Nugget Awards
• 2006 ALA/IIDA Award for Innovation in Sustainable Design