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. This building was once home to Sarasota's very first public library. It served as a library from 1941 until 1976.
Contents
History of the Chidsey Library
A New Library for Sarasota
The Chidsey Library was designed in a style called Mediterranean Revival. This design was created by the Martin Studio of Architecture. The main architects were Thomas Reed Martin and Frank C. Martin. The Chidsey Library first opened its doors in May 1941. It was the first building in Sarasota built specifically to be a public library.
The building was officially named after John and Ida Chidsey in November 1941. They were very generous and helped pay for most of the building's cost. The project cost about $25,000 back then. By 1946, the library held around 18,000 books for people to read.
Changes Over Time
In 1974, Sarasota County took over the job of running all the public libraries. The Chidsey Building continued to be a library until 1976. That year, the library services moved to a new place called Selby Library. This new library was located in the former GWIZ building.
After the library moved out, the Sarasota County Historical Resources department moved into part of the Chidsey Library. By 1998, the Historical Resources department used the entire Chidsey Building. This happened when the Selby Public Library moved to its current, larger location.
A Historic Landmark
Because of its important history and unique design, the Chidsey Building was added to the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP). This happened on May 4, 2011. Being on this list means the building is recognized as a special part of history.
