Story by STEVE TRAIMAN
Photos by Julie Sams, Jan Pellegrino, and Betcinda Kettells
More than 150 enthusiastic supporters were on hand October 28th for the official 50th anniversary celebration of the opening of theSt. Pete Beach Public Library.
Among officials on hand were SPB Mayor Al Johnson, City Manager Alex Rey, Vice Mayor Terry Finnerty, Commissioner Ward Friszolowski,and Florida District 69 Assemblywoman Jennifer Webb.
Library Director Betcinda Kettells was thrilled by the community response and told Paradise News “This was the last event in our year-long celebration. This many people in attendance is testament to how valued the library is by the community. Dr. Catherine Wilkins unveiled a museum display created by USF students on the history of the library, Elizabeth Britt gave a library history presentation, and a great time was had by all.”
The museum display will be at the Library through December when it will be permanently housed at the Gulf Beaches Historical Museum. Britt will give her library history presentation again at the Library on Thursday, December 12 at 4:00 PM for those who missed it.
Kettells concluded, “As with any large event, the city commission, staff, library volunteers, and the Friends of the Library played crucial roles in its success and a big ‘Thank you’ goes out to all.”