Drawings show the design for the new Hastings public library and community center.Drawings show the design for the new Hastings public library and community center.
Drawings show the design for the new Hastings public library and community center. | St. Johns County

Residents pick design for new Hastings library

Published on October 4, 2023 at 3:29 pm

Residents in Hastings have chosen the final design of their new public library and community center.

The choice came after two weeks of public voting over four possibilities unveiled Sept. 12 at a public meeting. They chose Concept A.

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The new facility would replace the existing library, which is housed in the former home of Hastings High School and dates to 1924.

The current Hastings Public Library, housed in the former high school, which was built in 1924. | St. Johns County

County officials held two informational meetings at the Harris Community Center to present four potential designs. Staff from the county’s Public Works and Library System were available to answer questions about the proposals, then people could cast votes for their favorite design at the current Hastings Library on South Main Street through Sept. 8.

More than 150 residents voted.

In a news release, Public Works Director Greg Caldwell said officials are “thrilled that the Hastings community came together to pick a design that everyone can be proud to see.”

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The planned community center and library will feature a full-sized library, a separate children’s collection room, an outdoor children’s reading garden, large meeting and assembly rooms, County Health and Human Services offices, a drive-up book drop and more.

A final design is being worked on now by county officials are now working on a final design. Construction is expected to begin next year.


author image Reporter, WJCT News 89.9 Dan Scanlan is a veteran journalist with almost 40 years of experience in radio, television, and print reporting. He has worked at various stations in the Northeast and Jacksonville. Prior to joining the WJCT News team, Dan spent 34 years at The Florida Times-Union as a police and current affairs reporter.
author image Reporter, WJCT News 89.9 Dan Scanlan is a veteran journalist with almost 40 years of experience in radio, television, and print reporting. He has worked at various stations in the Northeast and Jacksonville. Prior to joining the WJCT News team, Dan spent 34 years at The Florida Times-Union as a police and current affairs reporter.

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