Jacksonville Public Library Blog

Myths About the Revision Process with Writer/Editor Jessica Hatch

The writer/editor relationship can be a bountifully productive, creative collaboration. It can also leave both parties frustrated with each other and the resulting manuscript. Whether you're an aspiring author reaching out to literary agents, who will likely request a revision pass before sending your manuscript out on submission; an indie writer wondering how best to use your time and money to hire a freelance editor; or a writer doing their best with a round of self-revision, there's something in this hour-long, virtual workshop for you.

Find Us at WasabiCon + How to Find FREE Manga at the Library

Find us at Wasabi Con. Jacksonville Public Library is an exhibitor!

Jacksonville Public Library will be an exhibitor at WasabiCon! And we're bringing tons of manga for people to read and check out at the convention. So, don't forget your library card if you'd like to take one home! Find us in the Exhibitor Hall November 22-24 at the Prime Osborn Convention Center.

Lit Chat Interview with Civil Rights Activist & Author Rodney Hurst, Sr.

As the sixteen-year-old President of the Jacksonville Youth Council NAACP, he was one of the leaders of the 1960 sit-in demonstrations that culminated in the infamous and violent Ax Handle Saturday. Hurst's first book, the award-winning "It Was Never About a Hot Dog and a Coke®!", tells that story. Hurst’s fourth book, "Black and Brilliant" (written for 12-18 year-olds), dives deeper into bigotry, segregation and racism he experienced as a pre-teen and a teenager in Jacksonville.

How to Find and Apply for Small Business Grants

While May is Small Business Month, November is pretty BIG for small businesses, too. First, there's Small Business Saturday on November 30 and this year marks the 15th anniversary! It's a great way for your customers and community to show their support - and get a much needed financial injection at the end of the year. This year's theme is: "One Day Makes a Difference." What else could you do this month to make a difference in your small business?

Friends of Murray Hill Library Used Book Sale November 16

Join the Friends of the Murray Hill Library for a book sale on Saturday, November 16 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The sale is open from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. for members and from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. for all. You can join in advance at the Friends' website or at the door for as little as $5. Proceeds from the sale and memberships are used to help support and expand programs and services at the Bill Brinton Murray Hill Library.

Call for Memories: Share Your San Marco Photos and Stories

San Marco Branch Library 75th Anniversary Call for Memories

Jacksonville Public Library is commemorating the 75th anniversary of San Marco Branch Library with a Call for Memories and a series of public programs focused on the past, present and future of the neighborhood. This year-long celebration of the San Marco community, its residents and their library officially kicks off January 3, 2025. But you can start donating your family's photos and contributing your library stories to the San Marco Memories display right now!

It's True! November is Nonfiction Month

Nonfiction books help us understand our history and our world, dive deep into subjects that inspire and entertain us, and open our minds to the lived experience of others. November is National Nonfiction Month and November 7 is National Nonfiction Day! Mark the occasion with a new memoir, science or history book on a topic you've been meaning to explore! Our librarians have put together a few suggestions to get you started.

National Picture Book Month!

Each November, we take the time to honor and celebrate the enduring beauty and significance of picture books. This initiative reminds us of the power they hold in fostering literacy and imagination in readers of all ages. Join us as we explore the art of storytelling and the spark of joy that picture books bring to our lives.

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! We are conveniently located directly across from James Weldon Johnson Park, one of Art Walk's two major hubs of activity. This month, check out local art in the gallery, join the zinesters meeting and collaborating in the Zine Zone, or sign up for an art tour.

Books Celebrating Native American Heritage Month

National Native American Heritage Month acknowledges the many historical contributions and present-day achievements of America's indigenous people. It also pays tribute to their rich ancestry and traditions, many of which are still observed by nations and tribes across the United States.