Library

Summer Reading Programs 2024

This summer, your adventure begins at the library! We’re celebrating the power of stories to take you on thrilling journeys, introduce you to fascinating characters, and explore far-off lands, both real and imaginary. Along the way, you can earn rewards by reading books and engaging in activities! 

June 2nd - July 25th

Children ages 0-12 can participate in the Kids' Summer Reading Program and adults and teens ages 13+ can register for the Adult and Teen Summer Reading Program. 

Learn more about the summer reading programs, storytimes, registration, and prizes. 

 

Summer Kids Crochet Club at Jackson Branch

Hooked on crochet? Kids and teens ages 9-17 are invited every Wednesday from 12-1 pm throughout June and July to the Larry R. Jackson Branch Library to work on their current project, or to start something new. Crocheters of all skill levels are welcome, and while kids are encouraged to bring their own supplies, yarn and hooks will be provided as needed. No registration is required.

Knitters and other fiber artists are welcome, though there will only be crochet instructors available.

Crafting boosts fine motor skills, improves coordination, allows for creativity and self-expression, and teaches flexibility. 

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

Sweet & Spicy Book Club

This is NOT your Mother’s Book Club! Join your favorite librarians at the Lakeland Public Library on June 3rd at 5:30 PM to discuss "It Happened One Summer" by Tessa Bailey. Each month, we will explore new genres, share recommendations, and make friends. The Sweet & Spicy Book Club meets at the Lakeland Public Library on the first Tuesday of each month at 5:30 p.m. This event is for ages 18+. No registration required.

June's book: It Happened One Summer by Tessa Bailey

Summer Storytimes at Lakeland Libraries

Storytime is on for the summer! All three Lakeland Library locations have preschool storytimes for children ages 2-5 and their grownups, and the Lakeland Public Library has a baby storytime too for children birth to age 2! 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) 
June 3, 17
July 1, 15

Lakeland Public Library Preschool Storytimes (10 AM select Wednesdays) 
June 4, 11, 18, 25
July 2, 9, 16, 23

Lakeland Public Library Baby Storytimes (11 AM select Thursdays) 
June 5, 12, 26
July 3, 10, 17, 24

Larry Jackson Branch Library Storytimes (10 AM select Thursdays) 
June 5, 12
July 3, 10, 17, 24

Larry Jackson Branch Library Bilingual Storytime (10 AM last Thursday of the month) 
June 26
July 31

For more information, please contact the Kelly Branch Library 863.834.4286, the Lakeland Public Library 863.834.4268, or the 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 

Build Your Song Library

Access millions of songs and artists. Download and keep 5 songs each week absolutely FREE! Plus, unlimited music streaming! Even better? 15,000+ Music videos are available too!  All you need is your library card.

Visit Freegal Music to get started!

Lakeland and Its Lakes

The City of Lakeland is home to thirty-eight named lakes and a few unnamed ones. Many of the names tell part of the history of the city. These prominent geographical features vary in sizes, with Lake Parker being the largest within the city limits. A large portion of the lakes are natural, while others are man-made. People enjoy their beauty, fish in the waters and play on their shores.

Enjoy this "Lakeland Its Lakes" photographic stroll through our area's lakes and lakefront recreation places, showcased from our Flickr digital collection.