Temple Terrace library highlights new logo, restroom upgrades and free services

Shannon Long, assistant director of the Temple Terrace Public Library, said the library has "evolved a lot over the last 30 years," and emphasized that it remains an important public resource because many services are free.

Long said the library provides free internet access and book lending, and noted two lending programs intended to save patrons money: a seed catalog and the Beyond Books Lending Library, where residents can check out tools and other nontraditional items. "We have a seed catalog and the Beyond Books Lending Library where you can check out tools and other things for free so you don't have to purchase them," Long said.

On branding, Long said the library recently introduced a new logo featuring an open book with the silhouette of a temple orange intended to reflect Temple Terrace's history. She described recent restroom renovations that include new tile, flooring, stalls and plumbing, saying the upgrades aim to make the space more functional and aesthetically pleasing.

Long provided details about the seed program: patrons may check out four seed packets per month on a library card. "I think the Temple Terrace Library is the only library in, Hillsborough that does the seed catalogs," she said, adding the collection is mostly vegetable seeds with a few flowers.

The library offers several recurring book clubs: a contemporary book club for newer novels, a classics club, a nighttime adult club that focuses on horror or "scary stories," and a garden-club-themed book club. Long said schedules and event listings are available on the city's events calendar at templeterrace.gov and that the library posts weekly on Facebook and Instagram, including short staff videos.

Long closed by inviting residents to visit the library and join upcoming activities. "Come on down to the library and help us celebrate what's next," she said.