Old Tampa Free Public Library

The Old Tampa Free Public Library is a building with brown and yellow brick walls and a rusticated granite base in Classical Revival style. Inside, it features high ceilings around 16 feet tall and a barrel tile roof that reflects the elegant design of the period.

The building opened in 1917 with support from a major donation and served as Tampa's primary library facility for many years. It lost this role in 1968 when library services relocated to a new downtown location.

The building represents a turning point when Tampa residents voted to support public education and reading for everyone in their community. It stands as a symbol of how local citizens came together to create something that belonged to them all.

The building today serves as an administrative office and is not open to the public as a reading space. Visitors can view the exterior architecture, but should note that this is an office building rather than a public cultural center.

The building's funding was unusual because the community voted directly to pay for its ongoing operating costs. This happened long before such decisions became standard and shows how much residents valued education for their city.

Location: Florida

Location: Tampa

GPS coordinates: 27.96028,-82.46056

Latest update: December 14, 2025 14:45