The Lit Chat Interview with Siera London will take place live at the Bradham and Brooks Library on Saturday, May 11, at 2 p.m. 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 partners at Femme Fire Books.
The Main Library is proud to host the third annual Duval Comic and Zine Fest in downtown Jacksonville on Saturday, June 15, from 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. A celebration of independent publishing featuring local creators of self-published zines, comics, alternative press, and DIY media, the event will feature over 50 tablers, a risograph printing activity, a Writer's Lab workshop, and a Lit Chat with graphic novelist Nate Powell. The event is and all programs are free to attend!
This April, Jacksonville Public Library is highlighting the life and poetry of Alan Justiss (1943-2011), a celebrated Jacksonville poet whose works have recently been acquired by our Special Collections department. This panel discussion will be moderated by artist and educator, Nestor Gil. They'll talk about Justiss’ life and legacy, read selections of his poetry, and a preview of an upcoming documentary. An audience Q&A will follow the presentation.
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!
Do you have poetry you'd like to share with the world? Do you want to hear from local poets who write creatively about life in Jacksonville? Drop by the Main Library on Wednesday, April 3, during Art Walk for a special Open Mic Night with Taryn "LoveReigns" Wharwood and Hope at Hand, Inc. They'll be set up in the Lounge at 303 North (just inside the entrance on Laura Street). There will also be a poetry zine-making workshop in the Zine Zone (on the First Floor), if you'd like to see your work in print. Then, on April 13, we’ll have a poetry program doubleheader at Willow Branch Library!
If you haven't joined the Jax Stacks Reading Challenge yet... there's still plenty of time! In April, we're focusing on two of the sixteen challenge categories: "A book of poetry, essays or short stories" and "A book read by a Library Book Club in 2024." How perfect is that?! Not only can you find great recommendations for celebrating National Poetry Month, but if you're already a member of a Library Book Club you've likely already fulfilled at least one challenge category! That means you just have 11 more to go!
Learn how poets use vivid imagery, sensory details, and cultural references to transport readers to specific locations. In this interactive workshop, you'll delve into the profound connection between poetry and locale through a series of engaging activities and discussions. Participants will generate their own work, and discover how landscapes, cities, and personal surroundings can serve as powerful catalysts for creative expression.
Twyla Prindle is the founder of Kash Kids, Inc. and author of more than a dozen financial literacy books for kids. Her best-known work is Where Is My Money? She is one of North Florida’s leading advocates for teaching children financial literacy and entrepreneurial skills. Twyla hopes to inspire children to become financially independent adults and future entrepreneurs.
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.
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).
