The Central Library, located on Barcarotta Boulevard along the Manatee River and just a short walk from City Hall, is the hub of the county's public library system, which includes five other branches.
Residents, workers or students of the county can apply for a free library card, and printable application forms can be found on the library's website. The Central Library offers a host of books, periodicals and special collections, as well as audiovisual materials, electronic libraries and recorded books for the blind and disabled. The library provides meeting spaces for nonprofit groups and has an active Friends of the Library program. There are also multiple volunteer opportunities available.
For more information on library policies and a calendar of events, visit its website.