Jacksonville Public Library Blog

Kids Books for Talking About and Celebrating the April 8 Solar Eclipse

Solar Eclipse Safety

While Jacksonville may not be on the path of the total eclipse, we can still witness this incredible celestial event on Monday! If you’re planning to view the eclipse, remember to prioritize your safety. Here are some precautions to keep in mind. Plus, we've got some book recommendations that will help you answer any questions your little ones might have.

Lit Chat Interview with James Patterson - Live at the Main Library

Lit Chat with James Patterson

Lit Chat Interview with James Patterson, Monday, April 8 at 7:00 p.m. Mr. Patterson will be appearing live at the Main Library’s Hicks Auditorium. As space inside the auditorium is limited, the interview will also be livestreamed online via Zoom. Books are available for pre-order from San Marco Books and More for pick-up at the event. A limited number will also be available to purchase on-site.

The Best of Elementary Art Show 2024

Best of Elementary Art Show 16 locations

The annual Best of Elementary Art Show honors the fantastic work of student artists and their teachers in the Visual Art programs at Duval County Public Schools. Starting Thursday, March 14, one or more pieces of artwork from every public elementary school student will be put on display at library locations throughout the city.

Share Your Stories with Special Collections at the Main Library

Your Story is Special. Share it at the Library.

Special Collections at Jacksonville Public Library is a place to ask questions, trace your family roots, research the history of your home, explore old city maps and directories, and so much more! You, your story, and your questions are always welcome. Special Collections is located on the Fourth Floor of the Main Library and is open to the public during library hours. Appointments are not required but you can call ahead or book online if you need a research guide, a tour of the department, or help using the equipment in the Memory Lab.

Passion for Reading

Young girl holding Pete the Cat book between library bookshelves

"Reading is the cornerstone of a community's success. Yet many struggle to find the inspiration and motivation to keep reading in their and their family's lives," says Tim Rogers, Jacksonville's Chief Librarian and Library Director. "We want all Jaxsons to celebrate reading and find their own passion for it, so we asked some of the city's most passionate readers to share their stories."

Teen Lit Chat + Book Giveaway with Jax Author Bethany Baptiste

Teen Lit Chat with Bethany Baptiste

Morally gray Black witches. Sisterhood. Politics and rebellion. The Poisons We Drink is a potent YA debut from Jacksonville's own Bethany Baptiste... about a world where love potions are weaponized against hate and prejudice, sisterhood is unbreakable, and self-love is life and death. Join the Teen Lit Chat Interview this March. A limited number of copies of the book will be given away to participants (first come, first served).

Free Tax Preparation Available With AARP

Free Tax Help through AARP

The Jacksonville Public Library is proud to partner with the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) TaxAide during the tax season each year to provide FREE tax preparation. Taxes will be prepared BY APPOINTMENT ONLY. Call (904) 701-3462 now or beginning January 17 you can visit aarpfoundation.org/taxaide and submit your ZIP code for the nearest location to schedule an appointment.

March Life Lit: FREE Workshops in Money Management and Gardening!

Life Lit workshops

Life Lit are free workshops offered by trained professionals and volunteers that focus on improving your day-to-day life. These programs cover a wide range of workshops from gardening to small business needs. No need to bring anything but yourself to participate!

Celebrating Women Throughout History and Today

Celebrating Women Throughout History and Today

Every March, we are encouraged to study and reflect on the vital role of women in American history and to celebrate the contributions of historical trailblazers. It's also a great time to uplift all of the contemporary female leaders in the arts, sciences, government, business, and technology who have followed in their footsteps. 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 amazing women and girls.

March Art Walk: Bike Safety, Games + NEFSAA Gold Key Exhibition

We Are Open for Art Walk

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! This month, the City of Jacksonville Planning and Development Department will be at the Main Library to talk about bike and pedestrian safety and give out free bicycle helmets and other safety materials. Plus, we're looking for 5-20 courageous adult players for a logic game in the Lounge at 303 North called Blood on the Clocktower!

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