Library Academy

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.

Does your child loves singing, dancing, playing and reading?! Bring them to Klutho Park every Monday at 9:30 a.m. for a special pop-up storytime they'll be talking about all week long! We’ll read rhythmic stories together and add songs and movements to make it a wonderful time for all (even parents can get in on the fun)!

Have you ever thought to yourself, "I wish the library offered more storytime programs to fit our busy schedule"? Traveling Tales are a collection of convenient book bundles and activity kits for preschoolers, ages two to five, that you can take home! Parents, caregivers and educators: Get your preschoolers ready to read and ready for school with help from the Library! 

Join us for two weeks of back to school fun as we gear up and get excited for a new school year. In our various programs we will read stories, complete crafts, get organized, and learn mindfulness techniques to help you get ready for school! These programs are for ages 5-12 and will take the place of our regularly scheduled Junior Scientists, Junior Artists, and Junior Readers programs. You can join us either in branch or virtually. 

The kids are home from school, family is in town to visit and you need something fun for the whole family to do (or maybe just a quiet place to escape). Look no further than the Library for great ideas during your winter break! Make plans to read, play, create, and have fun with us either in branch or from the comfort of your home this holiday season.

This fall, bring the kids to the Jacksonville Public Library for an afterschool program! We have programs for kids age 5-12 happening every weekday at multiple branch locations and you can choose from an in-branch program or a virtual program! Join us for a fun and educational activity and check out some books to bring home.