Jacksonville Public Library Blog

Read About Black History and Excellence This Month with the Library

Excellent Reads for Black History and Futures Month

Every February, Black History & Futures Month gives us all the opportunity to learn about and uplift Black excellence through history and in the present day. Whether it's honoring the historical achievements of Black leaders, artists, athletes, and astronauts or it's celebrating the movers and shakers and taste makers of today: Jacksonville Public Library has an AMAZING collection of books written by and for African American people as well as a great lineup of public programs to help you and your family learn from those stories.

Read Your World Day: Celebrating Diversity in Children's Literature

Read Your World Day, formerly known as Multicultural Children's Book Day, is celebrated every year on the last Thursday in January. While there are some events, both online and offline, you can also celebrate by simply reading multicultural books with your kids on the day or throughout the month.

Celebrate Reading Week 2025: Jacksonville Is Bananas About Books!

Celebrate Reading Week Presents: Bananas About Books March 2-8

Jacksonville's annual "Celebrate Reading Week" returns March 2-8, 2025, with appearances by local and nationally known authors, live children's entertainers, your favorite book characters, and much more! Don't miss the un-peel-ievably cool party for the whole family at the Main Library in downtown Jacksonville on Saturday, March 8. You're sure to have a bunch of fun! You'll also get to check out Mayor Deegan's new River City Readers Bookmobile, pick up a free book (and free lunch) and learn more about all of ways Jacksonville supports literacy and families.

Kids and Teens: Win $100 for Writing the Best Book Review!

Celebrate Reading Week: Book Review Writing Contest. Kids & Teens: You could win $100!

Do you love reading and talking about books? Are you the friend (or the influencer) with all the best book recommendations? Is your bookshelf a carefully curated trophy case of all your favorite reading adventures? This could be your time to shine!

Win $100 in cash for writing the most persuasive book review and be one of our guests of honor at a special event downtown all about celebrating reading!

2025 Northeast Florida Scholastic Art Awards: Gold Key Exhibition

There are talented, creative teens all over Northeast Florida. The visual arts can give them the skills and the tools they need to express that creativity and, with the right opportunities, let it propel them to college and careers. That's why every year, the Main Library plays host to some of the most amazing and talented student artists that the region has to offer. Celebrate their artistry and achievement with us this February and March!

Preschool Palooza with Elephant and Piggie at Highlands Library

Meet Elephant & Piggie, explore community resources for preschoolers, participate in themed activity stations, and enjoy a performance starring singer/songwriter and children's edu-tainer, Shana Banana at the first "Preschool Palooza" at the Highlands Regional Library (1826 Dunn Avenue) on Saturday, February 15, from 2 - 4 p.m!

125 Years of Lift Every Voice and Sing + More Adult Programs

The Friends of Brentwood Library, Inc. and its founder and matriarch, Sharon Coon, invite you to celebrate the 125th anniversary of "Lift Every Voice and Sing" at free, public events February 12-16, 2025, at the Conference Center at Main Library and in other venues throughout Jacksonville. Plus, Great Decisions continues this February to discuss critical issues facing America.

Life Lab: Gardening, Genealogy and Business Workshops in February!

Learn how to grow your own garden or small business and take control of your health, career, and personal finances with free workshops at the Library! Life Lab programs are offered by trained professionals and aimed at improving your day-to-day life.

Year of the Snake: Celebrating the Lunar New Year with Books

Happy Lunar New Year and welcome to the Year of the Snake! Lunar New Year is the celebration of the arrival of spring and the beginning of the new year - based on the lunar calendar and a solar year. Those born in the "Year of the Snake" (1941, 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001, 2013 and 2025) are said to do whatever it takes to accomplish a goal! They are often associated with intelligence, resilience and love.

Free Tax Preparation Available With AARP

The Jacksonville Public Library is proud to partner with the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) TaxAide during the tax season each year to provide FREE tax preparation. Taxes will be prepared BY APPOINTMENT ONLY. The scheduling system goes live January 15 for appointments starting February 1.