Plans for the South County Regional Library in Estero began in 1989, when the need to keep up with the rapid growth of south Lee County became evident. At the same time the Lee County Library System began planning a regional system of service to make in-depth collections available while reducing duplication of resources.
The 32,600-square-foot South County Regional Library opened August 23, 1996, and was presented as a model of recycling and conservation. The building was originally a data processing center, and many of the fixtures were reused or recycled. A partnership with Florida Power and Light resulted in an innovative air conditioning system – still in use today – that freezes ice during off hours to cool the building in peak hours. The construction cost was $2.5 million, and the aggregate budget was $6 million.
The library on Three Oaks Parkway has quickly become an Estero landmark. Registered users total more than 22,150, and circulation of materials exceeds more than 45,000 most months. Total circulation for Fiscal Year 2002 – 2003 was 467,684, and this year’s circulation figures are far exceeding previous years.
Community groups take advantage of the library’s large meeting room, which seats 99, and two study rooms are available as a meeting place for tutors or for quiet study. Computer training classes for the public are offered regularly in the library’s computer lab. Several of Lee County’s system-wide library services operate out of the South County Regional Library, including the Bookmobile, the Books-by-Mail program, and the multicultural program.
The South County Regional Library has gained a reputation for offering the community a variety of programming. Baby-Parent Rhyme Times, toddler and pre-school storytimes, after-school programs, puppet shows, summer reading activities, Teen Cafés, and game and craft sessions are offered for children of all ages. Book discussions, humanities programs, and scholar-led discussion series have drawn adults to the library.
The South County Regional Library currently has a collection of more than 166,250 items, including regular and large type books, magazines and newspapers, videos and DVDs, books on CD and audiocassettes, and music CDs. The library also offers full Internet service and access to a number of licensed databases, as well as Microsoft Office Suite products.
Fall, 2004
