Kids Programs

Moving into your middle school years can be challenging. Not only are kids hard at work figuring out who they are and their place in the world... They are also starting to read independently and select their own books. It can sometimes be hard to find reading material that's both interesting and relatable (not to mention developmentally appropriate). That's where middle-grade fiction and characters like Stella Diaz come in!

Step into a world where bravery, teamwork, and a pair of magic shoes unite for thrilling adventures that are sure to ignite readers' imaginations! Mike the Friendly Firefighter: The Wild Car Fire by Brittany D. Jones follows the extraordinary journey of a Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department Engineer, who discovers that his job goes far beyond extinguishing flames. The first 50 children in attendance will receive a FREE copy of Mike the Friendly Firefighter: The Wild Car Fire, along with some other goodies!

Are you interested in performing at Jacksonville Public Library? We are always looking for engaging and entertaining performers! ve from the Library performances are an hour in length, have an audience of 30 to 50 participants, and target children ages five through twelve. During school breaks (summer, winter, and spring), we may schedule multiple performances at any of our 21 branches across Jacksonville, FL.

"When her father dies, Amie’s ability to play music dies, too. Nothing short of a miracle can bring back what she has lost." Karen S. Chow's lyrical narrative, Miracle, is a story about the complexity of grief - told in a way that's accessible to children. Learn more about this remarkable book at a special author event intended for kids, ages 5-12.

Experience rhythm in a whole new way with Just Add Rhythm - appearing Live From the Library in December and January! We'll practice our communication, sharing, and listening skills and get hands-on with different drums, shakers and Boomwhackers. Everyone gets a turn in this interactive, high-energy sonic adventure for children (ages 5-12)! Registration is limited and may fill up fast!

Imagine your kids, stronger, smarter and empowered economically to make all the right financial moves, all the right financial choices. We'll read books, play games and do fun hands-on activities. Kids will discover the importance of setting goals, making wise spending choices, savings and more. This captivating and educational four-week program is presented by Kash Kids. They believe that teaching your kids how to manage their money is one of the best ways for them to become financially independent adults.

Dan Santat is the author and illustrator of over a hundred books for young people including the New York Times–bestselling book After the Fall (How Humpty Dumpty Got Back Up Again). Though he's probably best known for The Adventures of Beekle: The Unimaginary Friend, the magical story of a would-be imaginary friend who sets off on a journey looking for the child he's destined to befriend!

It's never easy when your magic goes wonky. For Nory, this means that instead of being able to turn into a dragon or a kitten, she turns into both of them at the same time -- a dritten! A two-time Boston Globe/Horn Book Award Honor winner and recipient of the Sydney Taylor Book Award, author Emily Jenkins is a favorite with children for her humor and sensitivity. Join the Junior Lit Chat Tuesday, September 5 from 6-6:30 p.m. at Southeast Library (intended for kids ages 5-12). A limited number of copies of Harry Versus the First One Hundred Days of School will be given away to participants, first come, first served.

March 27 - April 1 is Celebrate Reading Week in Jacksonville! As an adult who loves reading, you already know the power of stories! You also know how important it is for everyone, but especially for children, to see themselves reflected in the pages of the books they read. Books can be mirrors for a child wondering where they fit in. They can also be windows, giving them a look at the lives of others. When we all have the power to tell our own stories, in our own voices, that's really something special.

Patricia J. Murphy is an award-winning children's author and a passionate literacy advocate who believes in giving children the tools they need to capture their big ideas and share them with the world.