The USF Tampa library building has sheltered students, history, innovation, and distinctive collections for 50 years in 2025. Work began on the ‘new’ library building in December 1972 and concluded in April 1975. By the time the building opened to students on September 15, 1975, it dwarfed the previous buildings the library had occupied.
“Many of us were convinced that we would never find our way around the building,” Vastine recalls. “It was so big compared to what we were used to. Even the faculty was concerned about finding their way out.” – James P. Vastine Oral History
In a special issue of the Oracle covering the dedication of the new building, library director Mary Lou Harkness predicted, “the new facility is a flexible, expandable tool and can probably serve the university’s needs forever.”
To commemorate this 50-year anniversary, the USF Tampa Libraries have curated a special digital exhibit that highlights the rich history of the building and how the library has embraced innovation, enhanced efficiencies, accelerated learning, and contributed to the creation of distinctive collections in support of students and faculty.
References
The Oracle: Library Dedication Issue. (1976). March 9, 1976. The Oracle (Print Editions). 1062. https://digitalcommons.usf.edu/usf_oracle_spc/1062
Vastine, James P., “James P. Vastine Oral History Interview” (2016). USF 25th (1985) Anniversary Oral History Project. 27.
https://digitalcommons.usf.edu/usf_25_anniversary/27