Jacksonville Public Library Blog

Celebrating Children's Book Week with FREE Books for Kids

Children's Book Week takes place every year in May. The purpose of this event is to promote the love of reading and to encourage children to explore the wonderful world of literature. This week-long celebration is marked with various activities and events across the country, including book readings, storytelling sessions, and book fairs. Of course, i you're looking for great stories, storytimes or a chance to meet a children's book author, Jacksonville Public Library is the perfect place to start looking!

Children's Books Celebrating Cinco de Mayo

Cinco de Mayo, or the fifth of May, commemorates the Mexican army's victory in 1862 in the Franco-Mexican War. Also known as the Battle of Puebla Day, it's a relatively minor holiday in its home country. In the United States, however, it has become a day to celebrate Mexican heritage, food, and culture - especially among Mexican Americans or in areas of the country with large Mexican American populations.

Springtime Gardening Tips and Tricks

Spring is here, and with it comes the perfect opportunity to spend some quality time outdoors. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting out, there's no denying the joy that comes from watching your plants grow and thrive. The Library has an extensive collection of books on gardening, from how-to guides for beginners to advanced techniques for seasoned pros - everything you need to get started on your own gardening adventure!

Books to Commemorate Military Appreciation Month

May is National Military Appreciation Month in the United States. Throughout the month, the Library will highlight books in our collection by and about people in the military and their families. Find books on military history, including biographies of famous military leaders, accounts of battles and wars, memoirs of soldiers, and more.

Asian Pacific American Heritage Month

Every May, we are encouraged to celebrate the Asian-Pacific American community's rich heritage, history, and hopes, as well as their many contributions to our country. Jacksonville Public 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. Throughout the month, the Library will highlight books in our collection by and about Asian-Pacific Americans including here on our blog, through book displays, and on Beanstack.

History Chat - Jews of Florida: Centuries of Stories

Jews of Florida: Centuries of Stories History Chat

From 1984 to 1992, Marcia Jo Zerivitz traveled 250,000 miles throughout Florida, conducting grassroots research and retrieving the state’s hidden, 250+ year Jewish history, resulting in a major archive and the MOSAIC: Jewish Life in Florida exhibit that traveled to 13 cities (1990–94) and eventually, Jewish Museum of Florida (JMOF) on Miami Beach. At our next History Chat, she will present highlights from her research and her seminal book, Jews of Florida: Centuries of Stories - the first comprehensive history of the Jews of Florida from colonial times to the present.

Art Tours at the Main Library

Main Library Art Tours. Photo shows a volunteer giving a tour, pointing off screen to a mural.

Augusta Savage, Al Held, Kathryn Freeman, Lee Adams, Jerry Uelsmann. Did you know that works by these artists and many more are on permanent display at the Main Library? Main Library offers small group tours showcasing the beautiful public art and architecture on the first Wednesday and one Saturday a month!

Lit Chat Interview with Bestselling Environmental Writer Jeff Goodell

Register now for the Lit Chat Interview with New York Times bestselling author Jeff Goodell. He will appear in person on Saturday, May 18 at 2 p.m., live at the Main Library. If you are unable to attend in person, you can catch the live stream online via Zoom. A book signing will follow and books will be available to purchase on-site from partner The Bookmark.

Great Reads for Jewish American Heritage Month

May is Jewish American Heritage Month, a time to recognize and celebrate the contributions made by Jewish Americans to the fabric of our society. In honor of this month, we at the library have selected some great books that showcase Jewish Americans' rich history and culture. We hope you'll take the time this month to learn more about Jewish American heritage and the many contributions made by Jewish Americans throughout history. And if you're looking for a great book to read, check out our picks at the library.

You Could Win $2500 in the Indie Author Project Annual Contest

Are you an indie author looking for a chance to showcase your talent? The Indie Author Project Annual Contest is looking for the best indie-published e-book in seven genres. Submit your work before May 31 for your chance to win $2,500 and other amazing prizes!