Jacksonville Public Library Blog

Staff Picks for Jax Stacks 2025: Recommendations to Get You Started!

We've got 16 new categories for 2025 - along with some great book recommendations to get you started. Start with the categories that interest you most and see how far you get! If you read just one book this year, you're a Jax Stacks reader! To officially complete the challenge, read at least 12 books from 12 of the categories listed below. If you need help keeping track, pick up a Jax Stacks Reading Challenge bookmark - available at your local library.

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!

Forward Thinking: San Marco Branch Library's 75th Anniversary

Jacksonville Public Library is commemorating the 75th anniversary of San Marco Branch Library with 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 this January!

Free Winter Break Activities for Kids Including Live from the Library

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 at the library this holiday season.

Appearing Live from the Library this December and January!

Join us Live from the Library this Winter Break for special guests and fun performances for children (ages 5-12) and their families.

James Weldon Johnson & J. Rosamond Johnson Youth Piano Competition

Youth Piano Competition. Image features a piano and music notes.

The Friends of the Brentwood Library group is proud to present the James Weldon Johnson & J. Rosamond Johnson Youth Piano Competition on Saturday, February 15, 2025. This prestigious competition not only commemorates the 125th Anniversary of "Lift Every Voice and Sing" - an anthem that has resonated across generations and holds a significant place in American history - but it also provides a platform for aspiring young pianists to showcase their talent, passion and dedication to the art of piano performance.

Winter Adventure Books for Kids + Free Winter Break Activities

We may not get much snow here on the First Coast, but that doesn't mean you can't still dream about snowy winter fun! Do you wanna build a snowman with your favorite Disney character? Do you wish you and your kids could sled down the side of a big hill? Have a snowball fight? Choose your winter adventure at the Library!

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!

Holiday Art Walk: Join Us in the Main Library After the Tree Lighting

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! This month, join us after the tree lighting ceremony and check out local art in the first and third floor galleries, join the zinesters meeting and collaborating in the Zine Zone, or sign up for a 20-minute art tour.

Free Gardening & Business Workshops at Your Library this December

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.