Craving a quiet escape in South Tampa. The Jan Kaminis Platt Regional Library offers a sanctuary for book lovers and knowledge seekers alike. This isn’t just a library. It’s a community hub brimming with stories and art.
The Jan Kaminis Platt Regional Library is part of the Tampa-Hillsborough County Public Library System. It stands as a testament to the power of community and the importance of accessible resources. Dedicated on December 11 2000 the library quickly became a vital part of South Tampa.
Before it was the Jan Kaminis Platt Regional Library it was going to be the Interbay Regional Library. But it was renamed to honor Jan Kaminis Platt. She was a Hillsborough County Commissioner and Tampa City Council member. Platt championed the environment libraries and honest government. She truly believed everyone deserved a nearby library.
The Jan Kaminis Platt Regional Library boasts 25000 square feet. Inside you will find a vast collection of books magazines DVDs and music. Computers offer internet access and word processing. The library also has public meeting rooms. Plus there is a drive-through window for easy returns.
Did you know Jan Kaminis Platt Regional Library was the first in the system with a drive-thru. It was also the first to use colored paint on its walls. In 2002 it added a coffee and snack bar. The Bookends Cafe was run by Ja Vahz.
Art lovers rejoice. The Jan Kaminis Platt Regional Library features an eclectic collection of art. You will see works on paper canvas stained glass and metal sculpture. Local regional national and international artists contributed. In the children’s section look for the panther portico and manatee bench. Jeffrey Cooper a New Hampshire artist hand-carved them. Above the service desk Monica Naugle’s “Pescados” a copper and stainless steel fish net sculpture hangs. Lenn Neff created the colorful stained-glass windows on the back wall.
Jan Kaminis Platt Regional Library is more than just a building. It is a vibrant space where knowledge creativity and community converge. It stands as a lasting tribute to Jan Kaminis Platt’s dedication and vision.