Miami-Dade Public Library System Named Finalist for the
2023 IMLS National Medal for Museum and Library Service
The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) has announced that the Miami-Dade Public Library System is among 30 finalists for the 2023 National Medal for Museum and Library Service. The Miami-Dade Public Library System is one of three institutions and the only library system in Florida to be selected as a finalist for this award.
This is the second year in a row that the Library has been nominated for the National Medal, which is the nation’s highest honor given to museums and libraries that demonstrate significant impact in their communities. For more than 25 years, the award has honored institutions that demonstrate excellence in service.
“So many museums and libraries across the country are committed to providing programs that are vital to the health and growth of engaged communities. We are very proud to announce the 30 finalists for this year’s IMLS National Medal,” said IMLS Director Crosby Kemper. “These institutions represent the best of what museums and libraries do for their communities.”
To celebrate this honor, IMLS and the Miami-Dade Public Library System are encouraging the community to share their library stories, memories and pictures on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram using the hashtags #ShareYourStory, #IMLSmedals and #MDPLS.
National Medal winners will be announced in late May, with a ceremony and celebration to be held in Washington, DC this summer.
To see the full list of finalists and learn more about the National Medal, visit the IMLS website.
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Get Your Favorite eBooks, Audiobooks and More with the Libby, by OverDrive App
On May 1, 2023, OverDrive will discontinue its OverDrive app. But don’t worry! You’ll still be able to enjoy all your favorite eBooks, audiobooks and digital magazines from the OverDrive collection through the Libby, by OverDrive app.
Designed with the library user in mind, Libby offers access to the same great content with a modern, easy-to-use interface. Plus, all your loans, holds and wish list items from the OverDrive app will be waiting for you in Libby.
You don't have to wait until May 1 to start using Libby. You can download the app today. Once you do, search for the Miami-Dade Public Library System by name, city or zip code and enter your library card number. It's that easy!
Click here for more information.
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National Procurement Month
Learn How to Connect Your Business to Miami-Dade County with the Vendor Academy
Are you interested in doing business with Miami-Dade County? Get the inside scoop on how to register as a vendor with the County, prepare bids and proposals and much more with the Miami-Dade County Vendor Academy.
Launched by the Miami-Dade County Strategic Procurement Department on March 1 as part of National Procurement Month, this online education platform connects you to essential information and resources through engaging virtual workshops and collaborative vendor forums designed to help you succeed and build strategic relationships.
Click here to learn more and find upcoming virtual workshops.
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Miami Dade College Spring 2023 Open House at Wolfson Campus
Attention future students! Learn about applying to Miami Dade College's Wolfson Campus, earning scholarships and other college opportunities, including dual enrollment, workforce development and summer programs, during the Miami Dade College Spring 2023 Open House.
Participants will also get to enjoy music, food, games and campus tours and have the chance to win various giveaways. Reserve your spot today!
Thursday, March 30, 5:00 - 7:00 p.m.
Miami Dade College Wolfson Campus
300 NE 2 Avenue
Building 2, Room 2106
Miami, FL 33132
Click here for more information and to register.
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MDPLS Digital Collections Blog
The Newest Addition to our Digital Collections: Celebrity Shoes
Did you know that the Miami-Dade Public Library System's Permanent Art Collection is the repository of autographed shoes from stars of music, entertainment, ballet and sports?
These iconic shoes are now part of our Digital Collections and can be enjoyed in stunning detail as three-dimensional models and high-resolution photographs from the comfort of home.
Learn more about this fascinatingly unique collection in the latest Digital Collections blog post.
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Employee Spotlight
Ivana Huq has a Passion For Making a Positive Impact
Ivana Huq's journey to librarianship was an unexpected but rewarding one. She started her career at the Miami-Dade Public Library System shelving books after graduating from college with a degree in public administration.
Today, Ivana serves as Assistant Branch Manager of the Country Walk Branch Library. She says her passion for books, helping others and connecting residents to life-changing resources are what drive her every day.
"Whenever I'm at work, I feel at home," said Ivana. "Knowing that I helped someone in even the smallest way makes my day."
When did you start with the Miami-Dade Public Library System? In September 2020 as a part-time Library Page at the Tamiami Branch Library. Due to renovations going on at that time, I was transferred to the Westchester Regional Library where I worked for seven months until I was promoted to Assistant Branch Manager of the Country Walk Branch Library.
What inspired you to pursue a Library career? My library journey was an unexpected one. I had just graduated with a Master’s Degree in Public Administration and happened to see a job opening for Library Page. I had fond memories of going to the library as a child and checking out giant stacks of books, so I decided to apply. I immediately fell in love with the job! Books have always given me a sense of peace and helping others is something that comes so naturally to me. So, it made perfect sense to me to go back to school for my Master’s Degree in Library and Information Science and become a librarian.
What was your favorite book as a kid? I literally grew up with the Harry Potter series. I was always a shy kid, so the series became this magical world that I got to be a part of. The books became my friends and Hogwarts was my second home.
What is the most rewarding part of your job? When a patron is truly appreciative of my help. Our customers come into the library for a variety of reasons and I always try my best to connect them to the information they need. The library offers so many resources that can literally change people’s lives.
Which Library resource do you recommend to patrons? I absolutely love using the Libby, by OverDrive app for reading eBooks and listening to audiobooks. It’s so simple to use – you can literally just click on a book and check it out. Plus, the curated monthly lists are perfect for people who are indecisive (like me) and have no idea what they want to read.
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Poetry
Enjoy Lunchtime Poetry and Jazz at the Library
Bring your lunch and join us for the kickoff of an interactive series of poetry and jazz sessions featuring local poets reading their works while accompanied by a live jazz band. Hosted by Miami-Dade County Poetry Ambassador Nicole Tallman and Library Curator and poet Oscar Fuentes. All ages.
Thursday, April 6, Noon - 1:00 p.m.
Main Library
Series takes place first Thursday of each month beginning April 6. For more information, please contact Main Library at 305-375-2665.
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MDPLS Author Series
Discover a World of Poetry with Author Ana Cristina Henríquez
Join award-winning Venezuelan author Ana Cristina Henríquez for a poetry reading of her book, Párpados entreabiertos and discover the vibrant and dreamlike poetry of her work. This program will be presented in Spanish. Ages 19 years and up.
Disfruta de la vibrante poesía onírica de la galardonada autora venezolana Ana Cristina Henríquez en una charla y lectura de poemas de su libro Párpados entreabiertos. El programa se presentará en español. Para mayores de 19 años.
Saturday, April 8, 4:00 - 5:00 p.m.
Doral Branch Library
Registration is required. For more information, please contact the branch.
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Online Event
Get Inspired with the Stronger Together Book Club
Join us online for a discussion of former First Lady Michelle Obama's newest book, The Light We Carry: Overcoming in Uncertain Times. After the conversation, enjoy a special presentation by historian Dr. Kathryn Beasley about some of America's past first ladies. Ages 13 years and up.
Thursday, March 30, 6:30 - 7:30 p.m.
Register online
Registration is required for this online event.
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Whether it was founding the first university more than a thousand years ago, breaking ground for Native American women in dance, or authoring one of the most popular and terrifying monster books ever written, the stories in this month’s Staff Picks for Kids in celebration of Women's History Month are nothing short of inspiring.
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Jump into spring with fun activities for all ages at the library! Spark your child's creativity with colorful Easter egg crafts, learn the secret of attracting butterflies and pollinators to your garden and so much more.
You can also browse our online Calendar of Events to explore even more exciting programs and activities happening at your local library. Select a date and filter your search by event type, keyword, age range and/or library location to get started.
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Easter Egg Rock Painting Craft for Kids
Bring your creativity and paint your own Easter egg rock! Use it as a decoration or to give as a gift. Materials will be provided.
Saturday, April 1, 11:00 a.m. - Noon
Coconut Grove Branch Library
Ages 6 - 12 years.
Furry Tales: Reading with a Therapy Dog
Reading to a registered therapy dog can help children develop confidence and improve literacy skills. Grab a book and enjoy a good story with a furry friend at the library!
Click here for a list of times and locations.
All ages.
Gardening Workshop: Butterflies in your Backyard
Learn how to attract butterflies in your garden year round along with other beneficial insects important to a healthy garden.
Saturday, April 8, 2:00 - 3:00 p.m.
Westchester Regional Library
Ages 19 years and up.
Learn All About Things with Wings
Fluttering, flapping, buzzing or bumbling – meet an array of flying friends from Castellow Hammock Park! Discover the best ways to spot birds, butterflies, bees and bugs in your backyard and learn about their natural behavior and survival tactics.
Presented by Miami EcoAdventures.
Wednesday, April 12, 4:00 - 5:00 p.m.
Pinecrest Branch Library
Ages 6 years and up.
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