The Jimmie B Keel Regional Library, located in Tampa, Florida, is a prominent public library that serves the community with a wide range of resources and services. As part of the Hillsborough County Public Library Cooperative, this library plays a vital role in promoting literacy, education, and lifelong learning. With a strong focus on community engagement, the Jimmie B Keel Regional Library offers an array of programs, events, and activities for people of all ages.
History and Architecture
The Jimmie B Keel Regional Library was established in 2001, with a state-of-the-art facility designed to meet the evolving needs of the community. The library’s architecture is notable for its sleek, modern design, which incorporates natural light, comfortable seating areas, and advanced technology infrastructure. The building’s exterior features a striking façade, with a combination of glass, steel, and stone that reflects the library’s commitment to innovation and sustainability.
Collection and Resources
The Jimmie B Keel Regional Library boasts an extensive collection of over 150,000 items, including books, audiobooks, e-books, DVDs, CDs, and digital media. The library’s collection is carefully curated to cater to diverse interests and reading levels, with a strong emphasis on fiction, non-fiction, children’s literature, and young adult materials. Additionally, the library provides access to a range of online resources, including databases, e-journals, and digital archives, which can be accessed remotely with a valid library card.
The library also features a number of specialized collections, including a genealogy section, a test preparation area, and a small business resource center. These collections offer valuable resources and support for individuals researching their family history, preparing for exams or certifications, or seeking to launch or grow a business.
| Collection Category | Number of Items |
|---|---|
| Adult Fiction | 40,000 |
| Adult Non-Fiction | 30,000 |
| Children's Materials | 20,000 |
| Young Adult Materials | 15,000 |
| Audiobooks and E-books | 10,000 |
Programs and Services
The Jimmie B Keel Regional Library offers a wide range of programs and services designed to engage, educate, and entertain the community. These include author readings, book clubs, children’s storytime, and teen activities, as well as computer classes, job search assistance, and small business workshops. The library also partners with local organizations to provide health and wellness programs, financial literacy classes, and citizenship preparation courses.
Community Outreach and Engagement
The Jimmie B Keel Regional Library is committed to community outreach and engagement, with a focus on building partnerships with local schools, businesses, and organizations. The library’s outreach services team works to bring library resources and programs to underserved populations, including seniors, people with disabilities, and those in rural or low-income areas. The library also hosts a number of community events, including festivals, concerts, and exhibitions, which help to foster a sense of community and social connection.
In addition to its programs and services, the Jimmie B Keel Regional Library provides a number of study rooms, meeting rooms, and collaborative workspaces that can be reserved by community groups and individuals. These spaces are equipped with advanced technology, including video conferencing equipment, wireless internet, and audio-visual systems.
- Study rooms with whiteboards and markers
- Meeting rooms with video conferencing equipment
- Collaborative workspaces with wireless internet and printing services
What are the library’s hours of operation?
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The Jimmie B Keel Regional Library is open Monday through Thursday from 10am to 9pm, Friday and Saturday from 10am to 6pm, and Sunday from 1pm to 5pm.
How do I get a library card?
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To get a library card, simply visit the library with a valid form of identification and proof of residency, and fill out a registration form. Library cards are free for Hillsborough County residents.
What types of programs and services does the library offer?
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The Jimmie B Keel Regional Library offers a wide range of programs and services, including author readings, book clubs, children’s storytime, and teen activities, as well as computer classes, job search assistance, and small business workshops.
