Paula A. Lewis Library
When the Paula A. Lewis Branch Library opened its doors in October 2017, it marked the first new library facility to open in St. Lucie County in nearly twenty years. More than just a long-overdue addition to the library system, it represented a deliberate investment in the southwest Port St. Lucie community — a fast-growing area that had lacked a dedicated local branch for far too long. Today it serves well over 100,000 residents within a five-mile radius and has established itself as one of the county’s most active and forward-thinking public spaces.
A Building With a Past
The library’s home has an interesting history. The building at 2950 SW Rosser Boulevard began its life as a City of Port St. Lucie police substation. After the city closed the substation and the building sat vacant for several years, St. Lucie County purchased it in 2013 for $2.3 million. A thoughtful renovation followed, funded through library impact fees, a 2016 Florida Legislature grant, and the generosity of the Friends of the St. Lucie County Library Association. What had once housed police operations was transformed into a welcoming, light-filled community resource. Add this place to your must-see list in Port St. Lucie too.
Named for a Champion of Libraries
The library bears the name of Paula A. Lewis, a retired St. Lucie County Commissioner and former Port St. Lucie City Councilwoman who served on the Board of County Commissioners for twenty years. Throughout her tenure, she was a consistent and vocal advocate for libraries — pushing for improvements to facilities, staffing levels, and programming. She also served for more than a decade on the Friends of the St. Lucie County Library Executive Board. Naming the branch in her honor was a fitting tribute to someone whose commitment helped shape the library system residents rely on today.
Beyond Books: A Technology-Forward Space
While the Lewis Library offers all the traditional staples — books, comics, DVDs, magazines, and e-books — its design reflects the modern reality of what communities need from a public library. The branch leans heavily into technology and hands-on learning. A 3D printer is available for public use, with a technical specialist on hand to guide residents through the process for a nominal fee. Video and music editing bays bring creative production capabilities to anyone who walks through the door, expanding on a model pioneered at the county’s Morningside branch.
A teen gaming room gives younger visitors a dedicated social space, while book-a-tech sessions offer free, 30-minute one-on-one guidance in practical digital skills such as setting up email, navigating social media, and conducting online research. These sessions have proven especially popular among older residents making their way through an increasingly digital world.
Programming for Every Age
The library’s calendar is consistently full. Story time programs serve the youngest visitors, including Just Baby & Me Storytime for children two and under, and Rhythm and Rhyme Toddler Storytime for ages two to three. Book discussion groups, tax assistance programs, and other community workshops run regularly throughout the year. Two bookable study rooms — one seating four, the other six — can be reserved in advance by cardholders or used on a first-come, first-served basis. If you’re searching for a concrete expert, click here.
A Building With a Past
The library’s home has an interesting history. The building at 2950 SW Rosser Boulevard began its life as a City of Port St. Lucie police substation. After the city closed the substation and the building sat vacant for several years, St. Lucie County purchased it in 2013 for $2.3 million. A thoughtful renovation followed, funded through library impact fees, a 2016 Florida Legislature grant, and the generosity of the Friends of the St. Lucie County Library Association. What had once housed police operations was transformed into a welcoming, light-filled community resource. Add this place to your must-see list in Port St. Lucie too.
Named for a Champion of Libraries
The library bears the name of Paula A. Lewis, a retired St. Lucie County Commissioner and former Port St. Lucie City Councilwoman who served on the Board of County Commissioners for twenty years. Throughout her tenure, she was a consistent and vocal advocate for libraries — pushing for improvements to facilities, staffing levels, and programming. She also served for more than a decade on the Friends of the St. Lucie County Library Executive Board. Naming the branch in her honor was a fitting tribute to someone whose commitment helped shape the library system residents rely on today.
Beyond Books: A Technology-Forward Space
While the Lewis Library offers all the traditional staples — books, comics, DVDs, magazines, and e-books — its design reflects the modern reality of what communities need from a public library. The branch leans heavily into technology and hands-on learning. A 3D printer is available for public use, with a technical specialist on hand to guide residents through the process for a nominal fee. Video and music editing bays bring creative production capabilities to anyone who walks through the door, expanding on a model pioneered at the county’s Morningside branch.
A teen gaming room gives younger visitors a dedicated social space, while book-a-tech sessions offer free, 30-minute one-on-one guidance in practical digital skills such as setting up email, navigating social media, and conducting online research. These sessions have proven especially popular among older residents making their way through an increasingly digital world.
Programming for Every Age
The library’s calendar is consistently full. Story time programs serve the youngest visitors, including Just Baby & Me Storytime for children two and under, and Rhythm and Rhyme Toddler Storytime for ages two to three. Book discussion groups, tax assistance programs, and other community workshops run regularly throughout the year. Two bookable study rooms — one seating four, the other six — can be reserved in advance by cardholders or used on a first-come, first-served basis. If you’re searching for a concrete expert, click here.
