The new Robert W. Saunders, Sr. Public Library on Nebraska Avenue is very unique to the Bay area and Florida’s Gulf Coast. The library is one of only two African-American research libraries in the entire state of Florida.
“It’s an honor to have this history here,” said principal librarian Carrie Hurst.
At 26,244 square feet, the new, two-story building is more than three times the size of the 46-year-old library that was on the site. The project cost approximately $7 million, and was funded by special library taxing district revenues.
“It’s wonderful to be able to honor the legacy of a great man like Bob Saunders as well as provide opportunities for students and people doing research on African-American culture and genealogy,” said Fred Hearns of the Robert W. Saunders Library Foundation, Inc.
The library is filled with stacks of books, but also plenty of culture and a legacy with direct ties to Tampa and its history. In fact, the library is nestled near Perry Harvey Park and Central Avenue, which was the once-booming location for African-Americans in the city.
“The library sits on the edge of the historic Central Avenue District and for about 100 years this was the center of black life, black businesses, black entertainment and culture,” said Hearns.
The library has a corridor dedicated to the history of Central Avenue. You can see some of the people and the places that may have been forgotten. But thanks to this unique place of learning that history can now be honored.
“It’s long overdue but I’m glad that Hillsborough County stepped up to the plate,” said Hearns.
Upcoming Robert W Saunders library events:
On Sept. 26 the Gala fundraiser will be held. Ilyasah Shabazz, the daughter of Malcolm X will be the speaker. For more information call 813-812-gala or email fhearns@netzero.net.
In October 2015 the library foundation plans to start a free program called “The Black History Experience” the first and second Monday of each month.