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West Tampa Branch Library

2312 W. Union St.
Tampa, Florida -3423, FL 33607 United States Get Directions
tel:813-273-3652
http://hcplc.org/hcplc/locations/wtp/

Overview

The West Tampa Library is part of the West Tampa National Historic District and is a City of Tampa Historic Structure. It is a historic link between the establishment of the City of West Tampa, the Cigar industry, and the Latin and African-American communities. On May 18, 1895, West Tampa incorporated with a population of nearly 3,000 people and became one of Tampa's earliest suburban towns. West Tampa's heyday was from 1900 to about 1920 when cigar factories flourished; dozens of commercial structures were built in the town's commercial core, centered at the intersection of Main and Howard.

Friends of the Library

This branch receives support from the Ada T. Payne Friends of the Urban Libraries, active supporters and advocates for the library. Proceeds from their fundraising efforts directly benefit this branch, the Robert W. Saunders, Sr. Library, and the C. Blythe Andrews, Jr. Public Library. Book stores run by the Friends are located in all three locations.

History

As one of only ten public libraries in Florida funded by philanthropist Andrew Carnegie, the Carnegie Library on Howard Avenue was constructed in 1913 in Neo-Classical Revival architectural style. Land for the building was donated by Angel Cuesta, a prominent cigar factory owner. The City of Tampa annexed West Tampa in 1925, and today the original library building continues to serve as the West Tampa community library. An additional 5,000 square feet were added to this historic building to make it accessible to everyone, allow for additional library materials and computers, and provide meeting room space for the public. The groundbreaking ceremony for the expansion of the West Tampa Library was held in September 2002 and construction was completed in September 2003. Refurbishment of the original building was completed in April 2004.

Library Art

Several distinctive pieces enhance the interior of the West Tampa Branch Library and present a unique historical statement. Triptych oil on canvas paintings by artist Ferdie Pacheco (Coming to Work, The Cigar Factory, Main Intersection) are located in the main foyer. Kaleidoscope, 2003, an acrylic on canvas triptych by artist Synthia St. James is located in the main reading room, which includes stained glass windows of the same design.

Library Hours

Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday Closed
Today

Annual Holiday Brunch (FGS Meeting)

West Tampa Branch Library 2312 W. Union St., Tampa, Florida -3423, FL

Florida Genealogical Society Tampa cordially invites you to our annual holiday Bruch and show & tell.  Come with your appetite and a facisnating story! Spouses are welcome.  

Free

Florida Genealogical Society – Tampa
PO Box 18624
Tampa, FL 33679-8624

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