After four years of renovations, the Pres. Barack Obama Main Library reopened to St. Petersburg residents in September.
St. Petersburg Mayor Ken Welch welcomed hundreds of people to the reopening on Sept. 27, which was pushed back several times because of construction costs and asbestos removal, according to the St. Pete Catalyst.
The library boasts new features including extended hours. It is open seven days a week. Its normal operating hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., but on Tuesdays and Thursdays, operating hours extend until 8 p.m.
Patrons can find new spaces like conference rooms, lounges, and a teen-focused room. Additional space is available for younger readers and programs are returning to those rooms, like story hours and guided activities.
Children’s and program rooms will have story hours, activities, and a quiet room for parents and childcare. Ages for children’s programs will vary.
Patrons can also find a new mezzanine room with computers and printers. This floor also will contain six study rooms.
The library now houses a bookstore so patrons can purchase and take home their favorite titles and a cafe for buying food and drinks. The library also can host presentations and public performances in its revamped auditorium.
Check out a great book and the renovated library at 3745 9th Ave. N in St. Petersburg.
