Library

Book Pumpkin Contest at Lakeland Public Library

Vote for your favorite book pumpkin in our virtual book pumpkin contest!

Voting runs October 23 - October 29. 

Find out more information and view the contest entries.

Teen Hunger Games Book Club at Main Library

Do you volunteer…to be a member of our Hunger Games Book Club? Come along as we read our way through all five books in Suzanne Collins’s legendary book series.

Whether you are a longtime fan of the series or a first-time reader, join us Monday October 26th from 5:30-6:30 PM at the Lakeland Public Library for our third Hunger Games Book Club meet up. In October, we’ll talk all things book three while feasting on some capital-themed foods. Bring your opinions, fan art, and questions, and remember, may the odds be ever in your favor! Missed a meet up? No worries, attendance to all sessions is not required.

This group is intended for teens ages 12-17, and no registration is required.

Questions? Contact Marine Acosta Ponce at Marine.acostaponce@lakelandgov.net.

Author Talk with Tessa Bailey

The Lakeland Public Library is excited to welcome New York Times Bestselling author Tessa Bailey for a special author event on Tuesday October 27th from 5-7 PM at the Ashley Gibson Barnett Museum of Art (800 E. Palmetto St., Lakeland, FL). Discover the inspiration behind her swoon-worthy stories as Tessa shares her writing journey, creative process, and insights into her bestselling novels, including her newest release, Broken Rival. After the presentation, stick around for a book signing. Local gem bookstore, Inklings Book Shoppe, will be on site selling a selection of Tessa’s books for the signing. This event is recommended for those ages 16+.

**No registration is required; however, this is a ticketed event, and tickets will be distributed at the AGB Museum of Art the day of the program starting at 4:15 PM on a first-come, first-served basis.

Questions? Contact Ángeles Otero at angeles.otero@lakelandgov.net.

Jackson Branch Construction Coming Soon

The Larry R. Jackson Branch Library will close to the public beginning Monday, October 26th, for a renovation project. During construction, the Jackson Branch Library collections, spaces, computers, and outdoor book drop will not be available.

Visit our Jackson Branch Library Construction FAQs for more information about the project, locations for library services and programs, hours of operation at the other Lakeland Libraries, and library services.

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.

Lakeland Public Library Storytimes (10 AM select Wednesdays) 
October 28
November 4

Coleman-Bush Storytimes (10 AM select Thursdays)** 
November 5, 12

Coleman-Bush Bilingual Storytime (10 AM last Thursday of the month)** 
November 19

Kelly Branch Library Storytimes (10:15 AM select Tuesdays) 
November 3, 17

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  

**Due to construction, the Larry R. Jackson Branch storytimes will be held at the Coleman-Bush Building on select Thursdays beginning in November 2026. 

Signs of the Time

Billboards, marquees, and signs across Lakeland got your attention and also provided information.

Enjoy this "Signs of the Time" photographic stroll through our area's signage and advertising over the years, showcased from our Flickr digital collection.

Baby Storytime at Lakeland Public Library

Join us at 11 AM on select Thursdays at the Lakeland Public Library for an interactive lapsit Baby Storytime with songs, rhymes, and fingerplays! 

Baby Storytime is designed for ages birth to 2 years old. 

Lakeland Public Library Baby Storytime (11 AM Thursdays)
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For more information, please contact Harley Davis at 863.834.4258.