Library

The Science Squad at Jackson Branch

Join the squad! Come create, learn, and explore the world around us through hands-on science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics activities at the Larry R. Jackson Branch Library on Tuesday, September 9th from 5:30 PM to 6:30 PM.

The Science Squad is recommended for children ages 7-12 and their grown-ups, no registration required. Things could get messy, so please wear appropriate clothing and make sure to arrive by 5:30 pm to not miss any of the fun!

Science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics activities increase innovative thinking, encourage curiosity, inspire creativity, foster collaboration, and prepare young learners for high-demand careers.

Questions? Contact Cassie Walters-Shantal 863.834.4294 or email cassandra.walters-shantal@lakelandgov.net

Cash Flow and Debt Management Workshop

Join us on Thursday, September 11th at 5:30 PM in the The Commons at the Lakeland Public Library to dive into your finances with the Lakeland Financial Center! Learn how to analyze your spending habits, develop a comprehensive strategy to attain debt freedom more efficiently, and explore strategies to enhance your cash flow. You’ll not only gain valuable financial knowledge, but also have the opportunity to ask questions. Get ready to leave financially empowered!

No registration required. This class is for ages 18+.

Questions? Contact Ángeles Otero at 863.834.4276 or email Ángeles.Otero@lakelandgov.net.

Lakeland History & Culture Center Lecture Series

Join us at the Lakeland Public Library on Thursday, September 11th at 5:30 PM as Ryan Crawford, Continuous Improvement Manager at JBT Corporation, presents "JBT Marel: Global Innovation, Local Impact in Lakeland."

In this presentation, Ryan Crawford will provide a closer look at how global food technology leader JBT Marel is making a meaningful impact right here in Lakeland, Florida. Born from the merger of U.S.-based JBT (John Bean Technologies) and Icelandic innovator Marel in 2025, JBT Marel now operates in over 30 countries with more than 11,700 employees. At the heart of this global network is Lakeland’s Research and Technology Center, a hub for citrus processing, aseptic systems, and food blending technologies. With cutting-edge labs, training programs, and a commitment to sustainability, the Lakeland facility not only drives innovation but also strengthens the local economy and community. As JBT Marel continues to grow, Lakeland remains a vital part of its global strategy—where innovation meets tradition, and local roots support a worldwide mission to improve food safety, reduce waste, and enhance supply chain efficiency.

Find out more information about "JBT Marel: Global Innovation, Local Impact in Lakeland"  No registration is required.

Plant Swap at the Jackson Branch

Calling all local plant lovers! Come hang out with us, meet other plant parents, and exchange plant clippings, full plants, or seeds on Saturday, September 20th from 10 AM to 11 AM at the Larry R. Jackson Branch Library. Registration is required.

To be sure everyone has a great experience, we ask that you do the following:

1. Bring only healthy, pest-free plants.  Check your plants and soil for pests and disease before you bring them.
2. Bring at least one plant, cutting or seed pack to trade.  The more you bring, the more you can go home with, but you must have something to trade to participate in the swap. 
3. Label all plants, cuttings, and seeds.  All swapped items must be labeled with the type of plant and care instructions.
4. Plants/cuttings must be in a container, able to transport.  Plants being swapped must be in a pot you are willing to part with.  Cuttings should be wrapped in a wet paper towel and placed in a ziploc bag.
5. Bring a box or container to take your new plants home.  This is the perfect time to use that pile of totes or un-broken down boxes. 
6. Trades and giveaways only, no selling.  No buying/selling of plants among participants will be allowed.  The purpose of the plant swap is to increase your plant collection and meet other plant parents.

 

Register for the Plant Swap

Preschool Storytimes at Lakeland Libraries

All three Lakeland Library locations have preschool storytimes for children ages 2-5 and their grownups! With stories, songs, rhymes, and activities, storytimes promote the development of preliteracy, verbal and listening skills, and socio-emotional skills.

Kelly Branch Library Storytimes (10:15 AM select Tuesdays) 
September 16

Lakeland Public Library Storytimes (10 AM select Wednesdays) 
September 10, 17

Larry R. Jackson Branch Storytimes (10 AM select Thursdays) 
September 11, 18

Larry Jackson Branch Library Bilingual Storytime (10 AM last Thursday of the month) 
September 25

For more information, please contact the Kelly Branch Library 863.834.4286, Lakeland Public Library 863.834.4268, or Larry R. Jackson Branch Library 863.834.4288  

Hurricane Guide

Hurricane season begins June 1st and ends November 30th

Find  information about weather alerts, safety information, sandbags, shelters, updates about City services and closures and more from the City of Lakeland's Hurricane site and Polk County Hurricane Preparedness site. 

Additional hurricane preparedness resources from the National Weather Service include:

National Hurricane Center 

National Weather Service Hurricane Preparedness guide 

Safety Tips and Resources from the National Weather Service 

Workers of Lakeland

"Taking what they're giving, working for a living"

Enjoy this "Workers of Lakeland" photographic stroll through Lakeland's wide variety of job opportunities and the workers who have made it happen through the years, showcased from our Flickr digital collection.