The City of St. Petersburg will officially reopen the President Barack Obama Main Library with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Saturday, September 27. The event will take place at 9 a.m. at the library’s location on 3745 9th Ave. N, with doors opening to the public at 10 a.m.
Mayor Kenneth T. Welch commented on the reopening: “The reopening of the long-awaited President Barack Obama Main Library marks a proud moment for St. Petersburg,” said Mayor Kenneth T. Welch. “I want to thank our City staff for their hard work in getting this project completed. This modernized space will serve as a resource for all who live, learn, and grow in our city, providing access to knowledge, technology, and opportunity for every member of the community.“
Beth Lindsay, Director of Libraries for the City of St. Petersburg, also spoke about welcoming residents back to the renovated facility: “We’re so excited to welcome the community back to the President Barack Obama Main Library,” said Beth Lindsay, Director of Libraries for the City of St. Petersburg. “This space has always belonged to the people of St. Pete, and we can’t wait for everyone to experience how it’s been reimagined for today’s needs and tomorrow’s possibilities.”
The updated library spans 4,400 square feet and offers new areas designed for programming and community use.
Originally constructed in 1963 by architect William B. Harvard, the building reflects Harvard’s contributions to local architecture in projects such as Williams Park bandshell and other prominent sites across St. Petersburg.
Named after President Barack Obama—America’s first African American president—the library aims to reflect values associated with hope and civic engagement while supporting its mission to inform and empower residents.
City leaders plan an additional celebration in November featuring family-friendly activities and interactive programs as part of marking the grand reopening.
