Tampa Free Public Library

Before the John F. Germany Library was built, Tampa's main library was located at 102 East Seventh Avenue. Known as the Tampa Free Public Library, this building was also often referred to as the Carnegie Library on Seventh Avenue. Like the West Tampa Library, the library was funded by a grant from Andrew Carnegie and has the formal architectural style found in many Carnegie libraries: pillars and a staircase leading to a prominent entrance.



From 1917 until 1968, when the John F. Germany Library opened, many people visited the Tampa Free Public Library on Seventh Avenue. As shown in this photo, it was a popular place.



Check out more photos and read about the history of the library here.

The Tampa Free Public Library is the focus of the next Library History Roadshow. If you remember going to this library, come share your stories and library memorabilia on Saturday, September 24, from 10am-3pm. Since the building now contains City of Tampa offices, the roadshow will be held in the John F. Germany Library's auditorium.