Residents of San Fernando and environs can once again access a full range of library and information services with the opening of the San Fernando Public Library on August 24, 2026.  The library is situated at the 1^st Floor, Edan Centre, Harris Promenade, San Fernando.

The official opening ceremony brought together representatives from Government, the National Library and Information System Authority (NALIS), the San Fernando Community and other stakeholders.  The feature address was delivered by the Honourable Wilfred Morris, Minister in the Office of the Prime Minister, who also declared the library open.

Remarks were delivered by Dr The Honourable Michael Dowlath, Minister of Education, Natasha Barrow, Permanent Secretary, Office of the Prime Minister and Head of the Public Service, and Chairman of the Board of NALIS, Dr David Muhammad, all of whom stated the importance of library services in the development of people and a nation.  Entertainment was provided by the young Kurshen Richards on the national instrument.

The ceremony was attended by councilors, students, members of the Board, NALIS’ executive director, Paula Greene; deputy executive director, Dr Beverly Ann Williams; other directors and managers of NALIS, students and members of the community.

The San Fernando Public Library offers a welcoming and well-designed space for learning, research, recreation and community engagement.   Services available to patrons include: free computer access, free Wi-Fi, lending and reference services, computer classes, storytelling sessions, as well as services for persons who are visually impaired and print disabled.

The return of library services to the city has been particularly welcomed following the recent closures of the San Fernando West Indian Reference Library in September 2025 and the San Fernando North Community Library in March 2026.

San Fernando’s relationship with library services has deep historical roots.  Residents continue to speak nostalgically of the Carnegie Free Library Building (Red Building), which was first established in the city in 1919. The historic building served the people of San Fernando for almost a century before it was closed in 2015 for restoration. The building has been subsequently designated a Grade II heritage building by the National Trust, underscoring its importance to the architectural and cultural heritage of San Fernando.

The opening of the San Fernando Public Library represents more than access to library and information services; it reconnects the people of San Fernando with an important part of the city’s tradition of learning, knowledge and community.

With doors now open, the staff at the San Fernando Public Library looks forward to welcoming residents of all ages and once again serving as a place where persons can learn, discover, connect and grow.

Library and information services will be delivered, Monday to Friday from 8:30 am to 6:00 pm and on Saturdays from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm.