Jacksonville Public Library Blog

Junior Lit Chat Author Talk with Lena Shaqareq

From a wild and wacky journey through the world of poetry with playful monsters and aliens to an inspirational, rhyming children's book about fireflies working together to bring light to the sun: local author Lena Shaqareq's Stanza Extravaganza and How the Sun Got its Light are two great ways to share the joy of poetry with your children. Meet the author from 1 to 1:30 p.m. on Saturday, April 26, at Pablo Creek Regional Library. Note: A limited number of copies of How the Sun Got It's Light will be given away to school-age children in attendance.

Free Tax Preparation Available With AARP

The Jacksonville Public Library is proud to partner with the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) TaxAide during the tax season each year to provide FREE tax preparation. Taxes will be prepared BY APPOINTMENT ONLY. The scheduling system goes live January 15 for appointments starting February 1.

History Chat: The Life and Poetry of Matthew R. Ward

In 1916, the Chicago Defender published an unknown local tailor's poem, "Bound for the Promised Land." This scathing indictment of the Jim Crow South spread like wildfire and became a rallying cry for Black southerners who risked it all to seek greater opportunity in the north. Learn more about the man and the poem that sparked a movement at 2 p.m. on Saturday, April 26, at the Main Library.

Read a Treasured Classic for International Children's Book Day

International Children's Book Day was founded on April 2, 1967 to promote books and reading. It's observed on Hans Christian Anderson's birthday. This year's theme is "Read Your Way" and being able to read for pleasure. Celebrate the joy of reading and the magic of literature with your children by checking out some treasured classics you read as a child. Or, let them introduce you to a new series that they love!

FANtastic Deals at the Friends of the Beaches Branch Library Book Sale

The Friends of the Beaches Branch Library invite you to stock up on your favorite authors and discover new ones April 15-19, 2025. The sale will include gently used adult fiction and nonfiction titles, books for children and young adults, DVDs, CDs and more! Proceeds from sales and memberships are used to enhance programs and services at the Beaches Branch Library.

Indie Authors: Win $2500 in the Indie Author Project Annual Contest

Are you an indie author looking for a chance to showcase your talent? The Indie Author Project Annual Contest is looking for the best indie-published e-book in seven genres. Submit your work before May 31, 2025 for your chance to win $2,500 and other amazing prizes!

April Art Walk: Explore Zines & Community in Preparation for DCAZ Fest

Celebrate our community's deep pool of creative talent on the first Wednesday of each month! The Main Library stays open until 9 p.m. for the event!

Writing Workshops, Author Talks and Book Clubs for Adults this April

Did you know? April 6 - 12 is National Library Week. This annual celebration highlights the valuable role libraries, librarians, and library workers play in transforming lives. Of course, our cardholders are at the center of any celebration. You are the reason we do what we do! On occasions like this, we like to talk a little bit more about those programs and services that we offer and encourage everyone in our communities to read, learn and grow. Chart your next literary adventure by browsing the stacks or joining a book club. Let an author color your imagination at an author talk, outline your big business idea at an entrepreneur workshop, or trace your history with your library’s genealogy resources.

Lit Chat Interview with British Actor and Debut Author Paterson Joseph

Paterson Joseph is a beloved British actor and writer. Recently seen on Vigil, Noughts + Crosses and Boat Story, he has also starred in The Leftovers and Law & Order UK and he also plays Arthur Slugworth in the Wonka movie. The Secret Diaries of Charles Ignatius Sancho is his debut novel. Catch the interview between Paterson Joseph and interviewer Kelsi Hasden from 7 to 8 p.m. on Monday, April 14 at Southeast Regional Library.

Free Writer's Workshops and Opportunities to Get More Readers

Get help writing, publishing and marketing your own book with FREE Writer's Lab workshops! We've also got a ton of free resources like Pressbooks and Indie Author Project that will help you find new readers and make self-publishing easier. Speaking of which... Indie Author Project's Annual Contest is accepting entries starting April 1 through May 31, 2025. Get the recognition you deserve for writing great books! There's also a prize of $2500 for first place!