The library was created by 14 women who met under the name of the Lynn Haven Literary Club.
That first library was housed in the Chamber of Commerce Building, bought with $3,500 that the members of the Woman's Club donated.
In 1962 the Association purchased a second bookmobile, and together with Washington County, formed the Northwest Regional Library System.
[5] In the early to mid-sixties, Gulf, Calhoun, and Walton Counties joined the library system.
The library contained 5,000 books with a small reference section, magazines, and a few reading tables.
The first official meeting of the Advisory Board of the Panama City Beach Public Library took place on October 3, 1978.
The community then needed to raise the cost of construction, which was an estimated $200,000 for a building that was 5,000 square feet.
The community also asked for and received help from the annual snowbirds that visit Panama City Beach during the winter.
Library staff and directors were forced to pack up the books and store them until the roof could be repaired.
Over the years, the library at Panama City Beach continued to grow and enlarge its collection.
The mayor of Panama City Beach, Gayle Oberst submitted a grant proposal for state funds to use in the construction of a new building.
A new library committee was formed to help raise the remaining money needed for furnishings and construction.
The chair of the new committee, Doug Gilmore, was also involved in the construction of the original library in Panama City Beach.
[8] The transition to the new building was accomplished with the help of library staff, volunteers, and Panama City Beach Road and Street Department personnel.
On May 20, 2010, a new Friends of the Panama City Beach Public Library group was formed and is still in operation today.
The new Panama City Beach, Florida has made a huge impact on the community past and present.
The Literacy Department within the library system offers a free program to anyone 18 years of age or older who wishes to improve their English-speaking skills, English reading or writing skills, or who is studying for the GED exam or U.S.
The program allows for Literacy Students to work either one-on-one or in a group setting with staff or volunteer tutors.