Chidsey Library facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Chidsey Library |
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Front of Chidsey Library
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| Alternative names | Chidsey Building |
| General information | |
| Type | Government library |
| Architectural style |
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| Address | 701 North Tamiami Trail |
| Town or city | Sarasota, Florida |
| Country | United States |
| Coordinates | 27°20′32″N 82°32′51″W / 27.3423°N 82.5476°W |
| Named for | John and Ida Chidsey |
| Construction started | May 12, 1941 |
| Inaugurated | November 13, 1941 |
| Owner | Sarasota |
| Technical details | |
| Floor count | 2 |
| Design and construction | |
| Architect |
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| Architecture firm | Martin Studio of Architecture |
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Chidsey Library
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| NRHP reference No. | 11000241 |
| Added to NRHP | May 4, 2011 |
The Chidsey Library, also known as the Chidsey Building, is a special old building in Sarasota, Florida. You can find it at 701 North Tamiami Trail. For many years, from 1941 to 1976, this building was the very first public library in Sarasota. Today, it is recognized as an important historic place.
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History of the Chidsey Library Building
The design of the Chidsey Library was created by the Martin Studio of Architecture. This firm included architects Thomas Reed Martin and Frank C. Martin. They designed the building in a style called Mediterranean Revival. This style often features elements like stucco walls, red tile roofs, and arched windows.
Opening and Dedication of the Library
The Chidsey Library first opened its doors in May 1941. It was a big moment for Sarasota, as it became the city's first dedicated public library building. Later that year, in November 1941, the building was officially dedicated to John and Ida Chidsey. They were very generous and helped pay for most of the building's cost, which was about $25,000. This made the library possible for everyone in Sarasota. By 1946, the library had grown to hold around 18,000 books for people to read.
Changes and New Uses for the Building
In 1974, the government of Sarasota County took over the job of running all the public libraries in the county. The Chidsey Building continued to serve as a library until 1976. At that time, the library services moved to a new, larger location called Selby Library. This new library was in the former GWIZ building.
After the library moved out, a part of the Chidsey Building became home to Sarasota County Historical Resources. This group helps preserve and share the history of the county. By 1998, the Historical Resources group fully occupied the Chidsey Building. This happened when the main library operations moved to an even newer and bigger Selby Public Library building.
Recognized as a Historic Place
Because of its important history and unique architecture, the Chidsey Building was added to the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP) on May 4, 2011. This means it is officially recognized as a significant historic site in the United States.
