Jacksonville Public Library Blog

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

Books for Library Lovers

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!"

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.

February Art Walk: Gold Key Exhibition Early Preview + Zinester Meetup

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, get an early preview of the annual Northeast Florida Scholastic Art Awards: Gold Key Exhibition, contribute to a collaborate zine in the Zine Zone on the first floor, or sign up for a 20-minute art tour with one of our volunteer docents.

Preschool Palooza with Elephant and Piggie at Highlands Library

Elephant and Piggie Preschool Palooza

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 the first "Preschool Palooza" at the Highlands Regional Library (1826 Dunn Avenue) on Saturday, February 15, from 2 - 4 p.m!

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. The scheduling system goes live January 15 for appointments starting February 1.

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.

Read Your World Day: Celebrating Diversity in Children's Literature

Read Your World

Read Your World Day, formerly known as Multicultural Children's Book Day, is celebrated every year on the last Thursday in January. While there are some events, both online and offline, you can also celebrate by simply reading multicultural books with your kids on the day or throughout the month.

Celebrate Reading Week 2025: Jacksonville Is Bananas About Books!

Celebrate Reading Week Presents: Bananas About Books March 2-8

Jacksonville's annual "Celebrate Reading Week" returns March 2-8, 2025, with appearances by local and nationally known authors, live children's entertainers, your favorite book characters, and much more! Don't miss the un-peel-ievably cool party for the whole family at the Main Library in downtown Jacksonville on Saturday, March 8. You're sure to have a bunch of fun! You'll also get to check out Mayor Deegan's new River City Readers Bookmobile, pick up a free book (and free lunch) and learn more about all of ways Jacksonville supports literacy and families.

Kids and Teens: Win $100 for Writing the Best Book Review!

Celebrate Reading Week: Book Review Writing Contest. Kids & Teens: You could win $100!

Do you love reading and talking about books? Are you the friend (or the influencer) with all the best book recommendations? Is your bookshelf a carefully curated trophy case of all your favorite reading adventures? This could be your time to shine! 

Win $100 in cash for writing the most persuasive book review and be one of our guests of honor at a special event downtown all about celebrating reading!

2025 Northeast Florida Scholastic Art Awards: Gold Key Exhibition

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! 

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