Jacksonville Public Library Blog

Lit Chat Interview with New York Times Bestselling Novelist Jamie Ford

Jamie Ford is a Northwest author most widely known for his bestselling Seattle-based novels. His most recent novel, The Many Daughters of Afong Moy, was an instant New York Times bestseller and a Read with Jenna Today Show Book Club Pick. His debut, Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet, spent two years on the New York Times bestseller list. Join us from 7 to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, March 12, at the Southeast Library for 40-minute conversation between author Jamie Ford and interviewer C.H. Hooks, followed by 20 minutes of audience Q&A.

Books You'll Fall In Love With This Valentine's Day

Find yourself without plans this weekend? Or maybe you're looking to treat yourself? This Valentine's Day, fall in love with a great book! We've got a mix of recommendations for you from first loves to late bloomers. We've even got some books about a really cute hedgehog for the kids!

Screening Room: There Was Always Sun Shining Someplace

There Was Always Sun Shining Someplace: Life in the Negro Baseball Leagues chronicles the rich history of Black baseball and examines the re-integration of the game. Narrated by James Earl Jones, this hour long documentary, produced by Refocus Digital Media, LLC, features interviews with baseball Hall of Famers Satchel Paige, James ‘Cool Papa’ Bell, Buck Leonard, Judy Johnson, Monte Irvin and Ray Dandridge. Watch and discuss on Tuesday, February 25 at Highlands Library with Armand Rosamilia.

Junior Lit Chat with Children's Author and Illustrator Zoe Persico

Join us Saturday, February 22, at 1 p.m. at Beaches Branch Library. This program is sponsored by the Friends of the Beaches Branch Library. After the program, there will be 30 minutes for a book signing with the author. A limited number of copies of Georgia's Terrific, Colorific Experiment will be given away to registered attendees, (first-come, first-served).

Do You Love Your Library? Celebrate with Great Books and Programs!

Did you know? February is Library Lovers Month - dedicated to all of the book lovers here in Jacksonville (and around the world) who rely on their public library for their books, movies, music, author talks, storytimes, writing workshops, and so much more! That is why, this month, we've put together a few booklists that our biggest fans are sure to love. It's our way of saying, "Thank you!"

Lift Every Voice and Sing 125th Anniversary Celebration

Celebrating 175 Years of Lift Every Voice and Sing: February 12-16. Image includes a photo of James Weldon Johnson

The Friends of Brentwood Library, Inc. and its founder and matriarch, Sharon Coon, invite you to celebrate the 125th anniversary of "Lift Every Voice and Sing" at free, public events February 12-16, 2025, at the Conference Center at Main Library and in other venues throughout Jacksonville. Part of a nation-wide tribute, it honors the roots of the "Black National Anthem" in the city where it was created.

Preschool Palooza with Elephant and Piggie at Highlands Library

Meet Elephant & Piggie, explore community resources for preschoolers, participate in themed activity stations, and enjoy a performance starring singer/songwriter and children's edu-tainer, Shana Banana at a "Preschool Palooza" at the Highlands Regional Library (1826 Dunn Avenue) on Saturday, February 15, from 2 - 4 p.m.!

Lit Chat Interview with Historical Fiction Author Jennifer Coburn

Lit Chat with Jennifer Coburn. Image includes a photo of the author.

Join us Wednesday, February 12, at 7 p.m. at the Southeast Library for a Lit Chat Interview with celebrated historical fiction author Jennifer Coburn and Jane R. Wood, followed by 20 minutes of audience Q&A. A book signing will follow, with books available for sale on site by local bookstore the BookMark.

Read About Black History and Excellence This Month with the Library

Excellent Reads for Black History and Futures Month

Every February, Black History & Futures Month gives us all the opportunity to learn about and uplift Black excellence through history and in the present day. Whether it's honoring the historical achievements of Black leaders, artists, athletes, and astronauts or it's celebrating the movers and shakers and taste makers of today: Jacksonville Public Library has an AMAZING collection of books written by and for African American people as well as a great lineup of public programs to help you and your family learn from those stories.

2025 Northeast Florida Scholastic Art Awards: Gold Key Exhibition

There are talented, creative teens all over Northeast Florida. The visual arts can give them the skills and the tools they need to express that creativity and, with the right opportunities, let it propel them to college and careers. That's why every year, the Main Library plays host to some of the most amazing and talented student artists that the region has to offer. Celebrate their artistry and achievement with us this February and March!