We are open for artists.
We are open for poets.
We are open for zinesters.
We are open for readers.
#We are open for Art Walk
Celebrate our community's deep pool of creative talent on the first Wednesday of each month in Downtown Jacksonville! The Main Library is directly across from James Weldon Johnson Park, from one of Art Walk's three major hubs of activity. This month, we have two local art shows, a Drop-In Summer Closing Party for teens, and more! Plus, it's the perfect time to take a self-guided tour of murals, maps and public art found throughout your library headquarters.
Don't forget to pick up a Map & Guide to the Main Library on your way in!
#Art Exhibits
The Jazz Jam with Photographer Felicia Bass
Felicia Bass is a Jacksonville-based photographer. She is a member of Black Women Photographers (BWP) and is currently Photographer-In-Residence at her family’s non-profit organization Don’t Miss A Beat. Felicia spent each Sunday from 2020-2021 photographing local artists coming to Wildcrafters, a non-alcoholic bar in Riverside, itching to get back in front of live audiences during the pandemic.
Her work has now culminated in a unique opportunity to exhibit a collection of photos chronicling this moment in Jacksonville's Music History.
Join us on Wednesday, August 2 starting at 6 p.m. for the opening reception and a talk with photographer Felicia Bass. The installation will also include live jazz "pop-up" featuring artists from the Jazz Jam.
Travel Photography Exhibit on the Second & Third Floors
In Observations of an Explorer, fine art photographer and published author, Mary Atwood, shares a collection of visual vignettes, both intimate and expansive, that she has captured during her explorations of various American and European historic sites. The exhibition runs from July 20 - September 7.
Mary Atwood is a long-time resident of the First Coast area whose deep appreciation of its natural beauty, rich history, and diverse culture is often reflected in her work.
#Drop-In Activities
Drop-In Summer Closing Party in the Teen Room
Drop in celebrate the end of our summer of fun and learning with a Drop-In Summer Closing Party in the Teen Room from 5-7 p.m. (during Art Walk).
Teens in attendance will receive their final FREE summer prize book (while supplies last) and participate in lots of fun games and activities.
Note: Families with young children are invited to join us earlier the same day from 2-4 p.m. in the Children's Department. Special guests C. Cowford and Colton the therapy dog will be joining us from 2:30-3:30 p.m.
There will also be a LEGO building activity. Children in attendance will receive their final FREE summer prize book (while supplies last).
Zinester Meetup
Make, trade, read and discuss zines with local zinesters and comic makers at our monthly Zinester Meetup.
The group meets in the Main Library "Zine Zone" from 6 - 8:30 p.m., next to the Zine Collection and across from the first-floor gallery. It's the perfect time to check out the Zine Collection or submit your zine or self-published comic to the library!
For more about the Library's Zine Collection, visit jaxlibrary.org/zines.
#Bicentennial Bell
The Jacksonville Historical Society unveiled the new 225 lb bronze Bicentennial Bell during May Art Walk. If you missed it, good news: The bell will remain on display here until a permanent site is secured.
Although similar to the Liberty Bell, the commemorative nature is different... instead of ringing for freedom, the Bicentennial Bell marks a milestone in Jacksonville's history, while also heralding the city's bright future," Gibson Evans told Action News Jax.
