Jacksonville Public Library Blog

Adult Programs this August: Two Lit Chats, a History Chat and more!

We are excited to offer not one but two exciting Lit Chat Interviews this August! We've got a bestselling mystery/thriller novelist and a bestselling historical fiction author! There's also a History Chat exploring Jacksonville's music history and culture and a publishing workshop for all of our aspiring authors out there! We also have gardening workshops, book clubs to join and a few Jax Book Fest updates you might want to check out!

Join a Library Book Club this August

Did you know? August 9 is National Book Lovers Day! If you're looking for ways to celebrate or a few fellow bibliophiles to celebrate with: Join a Library Book Club and get book recommendations from librarians and book lovers like you! Reading doesn't have to be a solitary activity when there are book lovers all over Jacksonville!

Junior Lit Chat and Book Giveaway with Ruth Lewis

Jacksonville is covered with all kinds of cool animal statues – jaguars, turtles, manatees and more! It can be really exciting when you spot one "out in the wild." While running to see a big blue statue of a manatee, three-year-old James was so excited that he got stuck in the mud and needed to be rescued by his grandmother. Hear this fun, true story with local author Ruth Lewis on August 4 at Beaches Branch Library. She'll also about family outings, real-life manatees, and more (intended for children ages 5 - 12).

Finding Work-Life Balance as a Small Business Owner

Did you know July 16 is National Workaholics Day? This month, we take a step back from the traditional business books and resources and take a look at helping ourselves. Conquer self-doubt and learn how to feel more balanced, motivated and passionate about your work and life with free courses taught by other small business owners.

The Jazz Jam Photography Collection at Main Library

A Visual Testimony: The Jazz Jam Photography Collection is making a stop at the Gallery at Main, Jacksonville Public Library's gallery space located on the first floor of the Main Library from August 2 through September 24.

Lit Chat Interview with Deb Rogers, author of Florida Woman

People around the country know the tales of "Florida Men" and "Florida Women," but only those fortunate enough to live here can truly capture their spirit! Learn how Northeast Florida author Deb Rogers did exactly that with her wild debut novel, Florida Woman.

Books to Celebrate Disability Pride Month

The Library has an AMAZING collection of books featuring stories and information written by and about people from varied backgrounds, races, ethnicities, life experiences, and viewpoints. We love to share selections that demonstrate the range of our collection all year and we encourage you to explore these books with us! This month, we are highlighting books about people embracing their disabilities and reclaiming visibility in public.

Where to Find Comics and Graphic Novels in the Library

July is Graphic Novels in Libraries Month! This annual holiday was started in 2019 to highlight all of the manga, graphic novels, and comics that libraries have in their collections. Spoiler alert: it's a lot! We also use it to promote all of the fun, geeky programs and activities we offer for readers. Read on for book recommendations, program reminders and an exciting announcement!

Hot Deals at the Friends' Big Bag Book Sale

Friends of the Jacksonville Public Library's Big Bag Book Sale on July 20 through 22 at the University Park Library.

The Friends of the Jacksonville Public Library's (FJPL) Big Bag Book Sale will be back on July 20-22 with fabulous deals on books, movies, audiobooks, records, jigsaw puzzles, and more.

We Are Open for Gamers: July Art Walk at the Main Library

Teens: Did you miss any of our Dungeon Master Summer Academy craft activities like DIY Dungeon Tiles or Fantasy Maps? Join us Wednesday, July 5 during Art Walk from 5 - 8 p.m. for a night of makeup D&D crafts and writing D&D adventures while watching the new film: Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves! Plus, the Main Library has two current art exhibits and more drop-in activities!