#Adult Programs in August
Summer is wrapping up... and that means Jax Book Fest 2024 is just around the corner!
Our biggest, annual celebration of authors, books, and writing returns September 20-21 at the Main Library with Lit Chat author programs featuring three #1 New York Times bestselling authors, several free writing workshops, dozens of local authors, entertainment for kids, a showcase of teen writers, giveaways, and so much more!
This month, we've got local restaurateur, Kenny Gilbert talking all things cooking and cookbooks, Life Lab gardening and civic literacy workshops, and a "Pop-Up" Writer's Lab for authors looking to "Polish Your Pitch." Keep reading to learn more!
Be the first to know about upcoming Lit Chat author events,writing workshops, and more!
Save the Date: Jax Book Fest returns September 20-21
Hey, book fans! Are you ready for the return of Jax Book Fest? This year, we'll be joined by #1 New York Times bestselling authors Vashti Harrison, Jason Reynolds, and Gabrielle Zevin. This is also your opportunity to meet and support dozens of local authors! Join us on day one for free writing and publishing workshops and networking opportunities for aspiring and up-and-coming authors. Then, come back on day two for the main event!
Writer's Day: Friday, September 20 from 12-5 p.m.
Reader's Day: Saturday, September 21 from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.
The event is free and open to all with something fun for readers of all ages.
Writer's Lab: Polish Your Pitch (with Authors Roundtable)
Want to be featured at the next Jax Book Fest? Sign up for a special Writer's Lab: Polish Your Pitch workshop on Saturday, August 17, from 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. at the Main Library. During this two-hour hands-on workshop, you'll work with seasoned professionals to craft a compelling and persuasive elevator pitch, transform your speaking skills to effectively engage and connect with an audience, and record a short video you can use for marketing, social media, and other professional purposes.
Authors Roundtable is a local 501C3 that supports authors in reaching their highest potential. Meeting one Saturday a month at the Main Library, authors participate in educational forums, workshops, classes, and events.
Lit Chat Interview with Restaurateur Kenny Gilbert
Chef Kenny Gilbert is best known for his appearance on “Top Chef” (season seven), where he displayed a big personality and instantly became one of the most likable "cheftestants" to date. Gilbert’s career spans over two decades and has graced him with opportunities to travel around the world and learn the authentic techniques and flavors of global cuisines.
Tuesday, August 27 at 6:30 p.m. | Mandarin Branch Library
Register for the FREE author talk!
This program is generously sponsored by the Friends of the Mandarin Library.
Life Lab: Improve Your Day-to-Day Life
Grow your own garden or small business and take control of your health, career, and personal finances! Life Lit is now Life LAB - a series of free workshops offered by trained professionals and volunteers, aimed at improving your life. They cover a wide range of topics from gardening to financial literacy to small business needs. No need to bring anything but yourself to participate!
Coming up this month:
- Natives with UF/IFAS - Tuesday, August 13, at 6 p.m. | Murray Hill Branch
- Wildflowers with UF/IFAS - Monday, August 19, at 6 p.m. | Webb Wesconnett
- Civic Literacy with EY - Monday, August 26 at 6:30 p.m. | University Park Branch
- Florida Friendly Landscaping with UF/IFAS - Tues., Aug. 27, at 6:30 p.m. | University Park
Library Book Club Meetings in August
Summer may be winding down but our Library Book Clubs are still going strong! Whether you're participating in our Jax Stacks Reading Challenge or you just want to know what other book lovers in Jacksonville are reading (and discussing), you're bound to find something to enjoy! We have 14 Book Clubs to choose from at locations across Jacksonville (and online). Find one that fits your reading vibe!
