By Jane Bartnett

The Gulf Gate Library, which serves Gulf Gate, Siesta Key and surrounding communities, celebrated 10 years of service to the Sarasota community on April 3 and 4 with a Hawaiian themed luau party. The celebration began on Friday evening with a presentation by Sarasota County Libraries and Historical Resources. Sarasota County District 4 Commission Chair Joe Neunder also spoke to the gathering.

On Saturday, patrons visiting the library donned complimentary festive leis. The welcoming reference desk, staffed by knowledgeable librarians, was decorated with tropical paper flowers. A colorful balloon sculpture with the word “aloha” served as a festive and tropical welcome to all.

In a reading room, a mermaid read to a group of children who sat on the floor, enraptured by the tale. They, as well as any visiting adult, also enjoyed refreshing complimentary ice pops from a visiting food truck.

Built in 2015, the Gulf Gate Library was recognized by Tech Insider as the “most beautiful library in Florida.”

Last year, the Gulf Gate Library welcomed more than 88,000 visitors and loaned 77,700 materials. Dr. Renée Di Pilato, Director of Sarasota County Libraries and Historical Resources, called the Gulf Gate Library “more than a place for books. It’s a cornerstone of the community, a space for lifelong learning, meaningful connections and enriching experiences.”