New library to expand

Officials agree to boost the facility's size after census data shows the original plans could not serve the population.

By LOGAN D. MABE, Times Staff Writer
© St. Petersburg Times
published March 28, 2003

Because of projected population growth, and a new way of counting clients, the County Commission recently approved a measure to increase the size of the south Brandon library by 50 percent.

Originally slated to open in December 2004 at 10,000 square feet, the library will get an additional 5,000 square feet.

Director of Library services Joe Stines said the increase was based on a census tract analysis that showed a 10,000-square-foot library would be too small for the population in the area.

Stines also noted that the census information helped identify a large population of children, a factor not previously considered when determining library needs.

"I'm elated, enthusiastic, and ecstatic that children are being counted," said County Commissioner Ronda Storms, who credited the Bloomingdale Homeowner's Association for pushing for the additional space. "I'm just happy that they're happy."

Association president Ted Grable was instrumental in lobbying for the larger space, arguing that other local institutions such as the YMCA and a recreation center were at maximum capacity as soon as they opened.

"We're thrilled," said Grable. "The community will fill up even 15,000 square feet very quickly, but it will be a much more usable facility than was originally proposed."

The $4.5-million library, to be located just east of Bloomingdale High School on Bloomindale Avenue, will be constructed on a site that could accommodate a building expansion up to 25,000 square feet.

-- Staff writer Janet Zink contributed to this report.