Jacksonville Public Library Blog

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.

September Art Walk: Art Tours, Animal-Themed Board Games, and More!

Celebrate our community's deep pool of creative talent with us on the first Wednesday of each month in Downtown Jacksonville! The Main Library stays open until 9 p.m. for the festivities! We are conveniently located directly across from James Weldon Johnson Park, one of Art Walk's two major hubs of activity. This month, check out local art in the gallery, join the zinesters meeting and collaborating in the Zine Zone, or sign up for an art tour.

Join a Library Book Club or Reading Challenge this September

Hey, Book Club fans: We've got some exciting news from the Library Foundation of Jacksonville! Members of library and community book clubs throughout Duval County are invited to a first-of-its-kind event with New York Times and international bestselling author Madeline Martin on Saturday, October 19 from 1-4 p.m. in the Conference Center at Main Library.

Writer's Lab: Writing Stories, Lifting Voices, Sharing Lives

Writer's Lab workshop with Dr. Kitty OIiver

We are pleased to welcome creative writer, scholar, oral history storyteller, and performing artist Dr. Kitty Oliver to Jax Book Fest "Writer's Day" for a thought-provoking, entertaining journey through the complexities of collecting, writing, and preserving the stories and histories of marginalized communities today. Her appearance is also part of the Library's project to grow the African American History Collection and its digital Community Archive. All are funded by a $1 million grant from the Mellon Foundation.

Writer's Lab: Poetry Unleashed (Building Bonds Through Verse)

Writer's Lab workshop with Taryn Wharwood

Taryn "LoveReigns" Wharwood is a multifaceted creative force, renowned for her roles as a poet, writer, author, emcee, motivational speaker, entrepreneur, and curator. Affectionately known as Love, she has become a catalyst for empowering performers, artists, and entertainers within her community. She joins us for "Writer's Day" at Jax Book Fest 2024 this September to share her insights into the transformative power of poetry, highlighting its ability to connect people on a deeper level and foster empathy and understanding.