Jacksonville Public Library is commemorating the 75th anniversary of San Marco Branch Library with a series of public programs focused on the past, present and future of the neighborhood. This year-long celebration of the San Marco community, its residents and their library officially kicks off this January!
Discussing the Past, Present and Future of San Marco
We'll start things off with a "Forward Thinking" panel discussion on Saturday, January 11, from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. next door in the Balis Community Center. A panel of community members involved in the San Marco neighborhood will discuss the history of the San Marco Library and the neighborhood, how the area has developed into what it is today, and where it’s going in the future.
This Forward Thinking program starts with a 40-minute conversation between moderator Kelsi Hasden and three panelists, followed by 20 minutes of audience Q&A. You may know Hasden as a copywriter/editor for ModernCities.com, TheJaxsonMag.org, and WJCT.
Robin Robinson and Dorothy K. Fletcher have both written about Jacksonville history. Robinson chairs the San Marco Preservation Society committee for Historic Resources. They will be joined by Tracy Thompson of the San Marco Merchants Association.
Note: Join us after the program for an Anniversary Kick-Off Celebration from 12-1 p.m.
#A Brief History of San Marco Branch Library
75 Years of Service to the San Marco Community
San Marco Branch Library originally opened its doors to residents as the Southside Branch Library on January 3, 1950, following the annexation of South Jacksonville in the 1930s. Since then, the branch library has changed its name to reflect its important position in the San Marco neighborhood and to help new citizens find their way to their local library.
A $1.8 million library renovation project, funded by the Better Jacksonville Plan, began in 2000. At that time, the former 7450-square-foot library expanded in size to 11,400 square feet. The renovation also included the addition of the new Balis Community Center, bringing the size of the new building to 19,000 square feet.
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#San Marco Memories & Photo Project
Call for Memories
Do you remember visiting the library as a child? Or did you find your family's connection to the Library through your children's love of books? Have you found friends and fellow book fans through a library book club? Or do you still remember that one librarian that recommended the perfect book for you or your little one? We want to read your stories!
The next time you stop by the Library, pick up a card from the Call for Memories display and write your fondest memory, favorite book or a funny story!
Neighborhood Photo Project
Help us tell San Marco's story through the Neighborhood Photo Project. We’re looking for your photos of historic buildings, churches, parks, landmarks, parades, ceremonies, and other places, people, and events important to Jacksonville's rich history.
Donate in person at the San Marco Branch Library or email digital copies to SpecColl@coj.net.
Photographs should:
- Be your personal property, without depiction of any protected material
- Be sensitive to the privacy concerns of others
- Not promote products or services
Explore the San Marco Collection!
Note: All donations are handled in accordance with the Library’s Donation Policy.
Don't miss the San Marco Memories Exhibit in the glass case display at the San Marco Branch Library. If you'd like to contribute photos, newspaper clippings, old brochures and other items relevant to library or local history: Please bring them by!
The display will be up all year and we definitely want it to keep growing!
Preserve Your Family Memories at the Memory Lab
Do you have old photographs in storage or home movies on VHS, 8mm, 16mm, or Super8 film that you haven't seen in years? Transfer them to a digital format that you can store and share online! Before you know it, they'll be ready for YouTube, Facebook, Instagram or wherever you connect with family and friends. Once digitized, you can also donate your photos to the Neighborhood Photo Project or the San Marco Memories display. To contribute, speak with Special Collections staff at the Main Library or email digital copies to SpecColl@coj.net.
Unlike other, often very expensive out-of-state digitization services, you don't have to worry about sending anything through the mail. The equipment you need is on the fourth floor of the Main Library. It's free for public use and open six days a week! All you need is a Jacksonville Public Library card.
Walk in or book your DIY digitization station in advance.
Please note: If you're visiting on Saturday or just want to make sure a particular station or piece of equipment is available for you to use when you arrive, please call (904) 255-BOOK or book online.
