Jacksonville Public Library Blog

Digital Learning Day: Computers In the Library

Woman and a group of children using library computer 1990s

Digital Learning Day celebrates the use of digital technology in learning. While libraries have always been centers for lifelong learning, it has been our embrace of technology over the last several decades that have kept us both relevant and essential in this new age of hand-held devices and instant access to information. That is also why, this past year, libraries were able to shift quickly to virtual programming and add more digital resources in response to the pandemic. Things have changed so fast. It's easy to forget that just 30 or 40 years ago, many of us had never even used a personal computer. The appearance of desktop computers in libraries was still somewhat novel in the 1980s and 90s. Now, computers and the Internet are essential to library operations and the services we provide to the public.

The Girl Behind The Black Friend Challenge

Taylor Richardson Read Poster with The Black Friend book

In January of 2021, Jacksonville teen Taylor Richardson started a GoFundMe campaign and reading challenge called #TheBlackFriendChallenge in the hopes of starting a dialogue to combat racism. Her original goal was to get 100 copies of The Black Friend by Frederick Joseph. She's since raised over $22,000 and has distributed books to schools and libraries in over 30 states and 40 US Embassies. The Jacksonville Public Library accepted the challenge and her generous donation - making sure the book is available for pickup at all 21 Library locations.

Your Jacksonville Public Library Card Can Now Get You Into MOCA For Free

Discover MOCA With Your Jacksonville Public Library Card

You don't have to be a bookworm to enjoy your Jacksonville Public Library card! The Jacksonville Public Library and The Museum of Contemporary Art have announced a new perk that comes with being a card-carrying member: you can now score free admission to MOCA with your library card on the final Friday of each month. Additionally, you can save on MOCA memberships. Library cards are so cool, aren’t they?

African American History Month Books For Kids

February is Black History Month, and a great way to help children learn about African American history is by using books as a teaching tool. This booklist covers a multitude of subjects and is essential reading not only for February but all year long. 

Recently Digitized: Local Black History Gem

Scrapbook page from the segregated Duval Recreation Program in the 1950s

In the 1950s, the Duval County Recreation Program ran in the segregated African-American schools, the Jefferson Street Swimming Pool, and the Brewster Hospital during summer break. Activities included playground, library, homemaking, arts and crafts, movies, and music. These photos were originally kept in very large wood bound scrapbooks but can now be accessed online thanks to a recent digitization project.

Books To Read This Month By Local African American Authors

As part of our African American History Month celebrations, we are spotlighting local Black authors who were either raised in Northeast Florida or make their homes and livelihoods here now. From two-time Emmy award-winning news producer Nikesha Elise Williams, to a book of short stories and poems by Spoken word/Hip-Hop artist KnightKrawler, to award-winning author Rodney Hurst—this outstanding list of local black authors belongs in your "TBR" pile!

NEF Scholastic Art Awards 2021: Gold Key Exhibit

Scholastic Art Awards Gold Key Exhibit February 13 through March 13

The Northeast Florida Scholastic Art Awards: Gold Key Exhibition runs from February 13 through March 13 in the Gallery at the Main Library. The exhibit will feature "Gold Key" award-winning artworks by middle and high school student-artists from counties across the northeast Florida region including Baker, Clay, Duval, Flagler, Nassau, St. Johns, Union, and Volusia and will be installed in the 1st floor gallery and the second floor atrium space. Any pieces awarded "Silver Key" or "Honorable Mention" will be exhibited digitally.

Lit Chat with Alexander Smalls, GRAMMY, Tony & James Beard Award Winner

Alexander Smalls Lit Chat at the Jacksonville Public Library

Jacksonville Public Library is excited to host Lit Chat on Thursday, February 11 at 6 p.m. with Alexander Smalls. Alexander is a James Beard Award winner, Grammy Award winner, Tony Award winner, restauranteur, and author. Alexander chats with Ulysses Owens Jr. about everything from his family roots, his music, cooking, and using talents to give a voice to the people of the African diaspora.

Blind Date With a Book

Blind Date With a Book

This year, Valentine's Day might look a little different. What's usually a big date night out might just be a cozy night in. Galentine's Day might just be you and your favorite female authors. That doesn't mean Valentine's has to turn into "Single's Awareness" night. If you're looking for love this Valentine's - look no further than the Library. Not only is February 14 also Library Lovers' Day... we've got you covered with books that will warm, steal, and maybe stop your heart. And who knows? You might just find the perfect literary companion.

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