Local Authors

A prolific local history author, Tim Gilmore, has written extensively about Jacksonville. The writer and creator of www.jaxpsychogeo.com, he has told more than 700 stories of strange and historic locations in and around Jacksonville, Florida. He is also the founder of JaxbyJax. A literary arts festival, now in its 10th year, JaxbyJax was built on the theme of “Jacksonville Writers Writing Jacksonville.” Few have written about Jacksonville more. He joins us this November to talk about his latest book, The Culture Wars of Warren Folks.

Jax Book Fest is back at the Main Library on Friday, September 20 from 12-5 p.m. and Saturday, September 21, from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. This year, we've got an amazing lineup of New York Times bestselling authors and over 70 local authors for you to get to know! See who's scheduled to appear!

Are you an aspiring author? Have you ever wanted to see your own book on the library's shelves? Join us Friday, September 22 from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. at the Main Library for FREE writing and publishing workshops, networking with local authors, and more!

Hey, Jax readers! Are you ready for Jax Book Fest?! Celebrate great books, bestselling authors, and (of course) READING with us and hundreds of your fellow book fans on Saturday, September 21 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Main Library in downtown Jacksonville. The event includes Lit Chat Interviews and Talks with three #1 New York Times bestselling authors, dozens of local authors, literacy advocates, multiple children's performers, scavenger hunts, and other fun reading-related activities for all ages.

Anyone can be a writer – even an accomplished chef! The first step is deciding what you'll write about. It could be something you're passionate about or particularly skilled in... Or could it simply be the book (or cookbook) you think is missing from the world!

If you’ve ever wondered how a cookbook comes together and what it takes to write one, here's your chance to ask a local expert!

You know the power of a good book. And if you're a parent, you know that it's important for your kids to see you reading for enjoyment. But as adults, we're all reading role models! The more we use the Library, talk about books, and attend awesome author events and book signings, the more literate (and well-read) Jacksonville becomes. That's why we hope you'll celebrate reading with your community starting March 27 through April 1!

If you’re a writer, you know that November is National Novel Writing Month. Though, you might call it “NaNoWriMo” – either affectionately or, let’s face it, out of sheer necessity. Because really, if you’ve committed to writing 50,000 words in 30 days, who’s got the time?! But if you need some motivation, inspiration, writing resources, or just some quick tips to get you started, the Library has you covered.