Jacksonville Public Library Blog

Banned Books Week: Celebrating the Freedom to Read

Banned Books Week (September 22-28) is an annual event that celebrates the freedom to read and highlights the importance of open access to information. It brings together the entire book community — librarians, educators, authors, publishers, booksellers, and readers of all types — in shared support of the freedom to seek and to express ideas. Don't miss this opportunity to engage with the magic of words and stories. We look forward to seeing you at the Library as we commemorate Banned Books Week and the profound impact of literacy on individuals and society as a whole.

The Color of Freedom: Exhibit at the Main Library (Sept 7 thru Oct 23)

Jacksonville Public Library is proud to host The Color of Freedom, presented by the Military Women’s Memorial and AARP, from September 7 to October 23, 2024, on the fourth floor of the Main Library. This powerful exhibit honors the diversity and contributions of America’s servicewomen.

The Friends of the South Mandarin Fall Book Sale Runs October 3-5

Friends of the South Mandarin Library Book Sale

Stock up and save on books, CDs, DVDs, and more - all while supporting your South Mandarin Branch Library! There's a wide selection of items for every age - children, teens and adults. The Friends of the South Mandarin Library's Fall Book Sale is located at 12125 San Jose Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32223. All three days of the book sale are open to all, but membership is encouraged and appreciated. Proceeds from sales and memberships are used to enhance programs and services at the South Mandarin Library.

Stock Up & Save at the Friends of Mandarin Library Book Sale Oct 4-5

Shop this sale and stock up and save on books, CDs, DVDs, and puzzles. There's a wide selection of items for every age - children, teens, and adults. The Friends of Mandarin Library's Fall Book Sale is located at 3330 Kori Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32257. Both days of the sale are open to all, but membership is encouraged and appreciated. Proceeds from sales and memberships are used to enhance programs and services at the Mandarin Library.

Natural Nywele Exhibit Now Open!

The Main Library is hosting a stunning exhibit featuring a collection of photographs by the talented photographer, Aaron Mervin. Called "Natural Nywele" (nywele is Swahili for hair), the collection consists of large-format fashion photographs showcasing natural African American hairstyles. This must-see exhibit is perfect for fans of Matthew Cherry’s Hair Love (which was illustrated by Jax Book Fest featured author/illustrator, Vashti Harrison). Show runs September 6 - October 25.

Writer's Lab Workshops in September: Jax Book Fest Edition

Are you an aspiring author? Thinking about self-publishing? Need tips for marketing your work? Want to learn how to get your book on the library's shelves? Get help writing, publishing, and marketing your book with free workshops at the Library!

Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month

National Hispanic Heritage Month honors the cultures and contributions of Hispanic heritage and traditions rooted in all Latin American countries. The celebration begins in the middle of September to coincide with independence days in several Latin American countries and ends on October 15.

Shop the Friends of the Beaches Branch Library BOOK SALE!

Dive into the literary wonderland that awaits you at the Friends of the Beaches Branch Library Book Sale September 17-21. Not only will you find great deals on gently used books but puzzles, DVDs, CDs, records and other media as well! The sale is located at 600 3rd St, Neptune Beach, FL 32266.

Author Interviews, Writer's Workshops, and More This September

Are you ready for Jax Book Fest 2024? Jacksonville Public Library’s signature literary event, it brings book lovers of all ages together to meet their favorite bestselling authors and to discover up-and-coming local authors from right here in Florida. The event 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, 70+ local authors, entertainment for kids, a showcase of teen writers, giveaways, and so much more!

Celebrate International Literacy Day!

September 8th is World Literacy Day, and the Jacksonville Public Library is excited to be a part of the global celebration! Literacy is the foundation for learning. It is a critical component for sustainable development and an essential tool for individuals and communities to access and understand the world.