Public libraries serve many purposes, from providing access to books and technology to acting as vital gathering spaces for their communities. Some simply offer the basics, while others become deeply woven into the social and cultural fabric of their towns.

Safety Harbor Public Library clearly belongs to the latter. Since opening in 1994, the downtown institution has been a beloved hub for learning, connection, and creativity. That legacy reached new heights—literally—on April 10, when a long-anticipated second floor was officially unveiled to an enthusiastic crowd gathered beneath the gleaming new addition.

“My grandfather used to say about my grandmother’s cooking, ‘Worthwhile is worth waiting for,’” said Mayor Joe Ayoub during the ribbon-cutting ceremony. “And I think that applies perfectly to today.”

The expanded space adds much-needed conference rooms, office space, and the only elevator in a city building.

“I think the finished product looks amazing,” Ayoub said, crediting Library Director Lisa Kothe for her decade-long dedication to the project.

Kothe, in turn, expressed deep gratitude to those who brought the vision to life.

“I want to thank Joe, our elected officials, our funding sources, and the city of Safety Harbor—which is all of you,” she said, acknowledging the long list of contributors whose support could “fill a few bookshelves.”

She also recognized her predecessor, former director Lana Bullian, and the library’s architectural firm, Long and Associates, who planned ahead during the 2008–2009 renovation to ensure the building could someday support a second floor.

“They had the foresight to know this library would grow,” Kothe said.

She also praised the state of Florida for awarding a $500,000 construction grant, the Friends of the Safety Harbor Library for raising an additional $500,000 for furnishings, technology, and materials, and city engineer Michelle Giuliani for her critical role.

“This project wouldn’t have happened without her,” Kothe said.

Kothe recounted the library’s early days in a small house on Fifth Street before its relocation and expansion in 2009, a moment that set the stage for this latest milestone.

“And now, here we are—with a second story that will serve our writers, artists, readers, and library lovers for generations,” she said. “I love this town, I live in this town, and I love all of you. So, cut the ribbon, Joe!”

With cheers from the crowd, the mayor sliced through the red ribbon, officially opening the second story as visitors streamed inside to explore the new space.

Reflecting afterward, Kothe emphasized the significance of the turnout.

“I was so happy to have our patrons, library supporters, City Commission, and City Staff at the event,” she said in an email sent April 14. “The size of the crowd shows how vital libraries are to the heart of a community.”

Celebrating the expansion during National Library Week made the occasion even more meaningful, she added.

“Investing in libraries is truly investing in our community.”

Local author and writing coach Laura Kepner agreed.

“Expanding the library with a second story is about more than just square footage,” she said. “It’s about strengthening the heart of our city.”

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