Sanford Contractors joined our partners at Lee County Government, Lee County Library staff and volunteers, community leaders, and many neighbors to celebrate the ribbon cutting and grand opening of the new Lee County Library on May 2. The full day of celebration marked the completion of a project that represents a major investment in the future of Lee County.

Sanford Contractors was proud to partner with Samet Corporation to deliver the new main Lee County Library to our community. The nearly 34,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art facility was designed by Vines Architecture to serve as a modern, accessible space for learning, connection, and community engagement. Projects like this come together through strong partnerships and a shared commitment to creating spaces that serve people for generations.

During the ribbon cutting ceremony, Lisa Minter noted that the new library had been included in the County’s capital improvement planning as early as 1993, describing it as a vision more than 30 years in the making. Beth List shared that the library reflects Lee County’s commitment to putting people first, describing it as “not just a place for books, but a place for people… a true third place where everyone belongs.” Sanford Area Growth Alliance also discussed how investments in quality-of-life infrastructure like the new Lee County Library and the Lee County Athletic Park play an important role in supporting continued economic and workforce development across the region.

More than just a place to read, the library offers expanded resources and flexible spaces for a wide range of uses. The facility includes areas for public meetings, dedicated programming for children, teens, and adults, rentable rooms, outdoor gathering spaces, computer access, and convenient drive-up book return and pickup.

One of the most anticipated features is the new makerspace, equipped with 3D printers and creative tools made possible through the support of Kyowa Kirin. This addition reflects the library’s expanded role as a hub for innovation and hands-on learning across Lee County.

As Commercial Building Vice President Blake Baur shared, it is incredibly rewarding to see the impact our projects can have on the community. Hundreds attended the grand opening celebrations, with families, library staff, and local leaders gathering throughout the day, all brimming with excitement about the new facility.

From groundbreaking in November 2024 to delivering this facility this spring, Sanford Contractors is proud to have played a role in bringing this new library to life. We look forward to seeing how it supports learning, connection, and growth across Lee County in the years ahead.