The new Lakewood Ranch Library is the perfect place for reading, studying, remote work or participating in a class or workshop. Photo by Caio and courtesy of Pexels.

In January, Lakewood Ranch celebrated the much-anticipated opening of Manatee County’s newest library, the Lakewood Ranch Library. At this modern and inviting facility, the community can come together to read, work and participate in a myriad of programs, including rooftop yoga and workshops.

“From concept to design, build and completion, the library is proof that collaboration results in a far superior result than an original vision,” says District 5 Commissioner Ray Turner. “Willis Smith Construction, Fawley Bryant Architecture and Manatee County staff worked together making sure nothing was missed, so the outcome would be as impressive as it is.” While the second floor is still in progress, the first floor of the library is expansive, with several large conference rooms for events. There are designated sections for children and teens, as well as a wide selection of books from all genres, including many books in Spanish. The bright and airy space boasts a tranquil lake view and offers plenty of seating areas and computers for patrons’ use. Seating is varied, from high-top workstations to cozy nooks. The reading room offers a quiet place to work, study or get lost in a book. Patrons can also make use of a maker space where various programs are held. Additionally, children can enjoy the outdoor play area, a wonderful family feature.

“What makes this library unique is the fact that it is truly a world-class, innovative community center versus a traditional library. It was meticulously designed to accommodate a full spectrum of programs and events, from rooftop birthdays, weddings or team-building events, to sales meetings, training programs and community groups of all kinds,” Turner adds. “This is a community center and adds what every community desperately needs, a safe place to come together, network, connect and learn. The staff has cultivated relationships with valuable associations such as the Lakewood Ranch Business Alliance, making it possible for new residents to connect quickly, existing businesses to network and scale, and new businesses to have a platform to launch from.”

Lakewood Ranch Library, 16410 Rangeland Pkwy., Bradenton, 941-742-4500, mymanatee.org.

The new Lakewood Ranch Library is the perfect place for reading, studying, remote work or participating in a class or workshop. Photo by Caio and courtesy of Pexels.

Lakewood Ranch Library