Ready, Set, Library!
Connect With Your Local Library During National Library Week 📚
National Library Week (April 7-13) is almost here! It's a time to celebrate the vital role that libraries, librarians and library workers play in enriching lives and helping our community thrive. This year's theme is "Ready, Set, Library!", which highlights libraries as a place to connect and engage with others.
From author talks, fitness classes and language learning to book clubs, technology classes, social services, financial literacy and much, much more, you can connect with others at the library. No matter where you find yourself on the roadmap through life’s journey – preparing for a new career, launching a business or raising a family – the library truly can help you "Take Your Story Further."
Celebrate National Library Week with us by visiting your local library to discover (or rediscover) all that it has to offer.
For a list of upcoming special events and more information, visit www.mdpls.org/nlw.
Library resource fun fair
Join us to learn more about invaluable library resources and services available to you for free. You can also enjoy STEAM and art activities, storytelling, a thrilling scavenger hunt and a special performance presented by Fantasy Theatre Factory. Plus, don't miss the announcement of our 2024 Make A Bookmark contest winners! All ages.
Saturday, April 13, 1 - 4 p.m.
Main Library
|
|
 |
 |
|
in loving memory
Library Legacy: Remembering Margarita Cano ♥
The Miami-Dade Public Library System is mourning the loss of Margarita Cano, beloved librarian, curator and artist, who passed away on March 19 at the age of 92. During her 30-year library career, Margarita helped initiate our Permanent Art Collection, art exhibitions program and the first Miami Book Fair. After retiring, she co-founded the Library's The Vasari Project to help preserve Miami-Dade County’s rich art history.
Learn more about Margarita Cano’s life and legacy and view her artwork in this month’s Digital Collections Blog.
|
|
|
|
Resource Spotlight
Dive into Reading with OverDrive and the Libby, by OverDrive App
Did you know that the Library offers a vast online selection of eBooks, eAudiobooks and digital magazines? You can borrow and explore thousands of captivating reads, available 24/7, free with your library card!
Simply visit our OverDrive page or download the free Libby, by OverDrive app to search, check out and enjoy your favorite books and magazines anytime, anywhere.
You can also explore our Spanish collection and delve deeper into topics like business, personal finance and entrepreneurship with our custom curated Business Library collection.
Click here to start exploring today!
Android Users: If your device is running on Android 7.1.0 or earlier, make sure to update your operating system by April 15 to continue enjoying all that Libby has to offer.
|
 |
|
|
|
day of giving
Be a Hero in Our Community: Support Jackson Health
System 🩺
Help Jackson Health System continue to save lives by participating in One Day for Jackson, a community-wide day for giving on Thursday, April 4.
Your donation, no matter the amount, or participation in partner events, will benefit patients by funding advanced treatments, innovative technology and cutting-edge facilities.
For more information and to make a donation, visit www.onedayforjackson.org.
|
|
|
Community Resources
Free Estate Planning: Get Legal Assistance Today 👩⚖️
Secure your loved ones' futures by attending a panel discussion led by legal experts on how to prepare wills, trusts and power of attorney forms.
Following the discussion, participants can take advantage of free estate planning consultations provided by volunteer attorneys. Don't miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights and personalized guidance for all your estate needs.
Saturday, April 13, 10 a.m.
Joseph Caleb Center
5400 NW 22nd Avenue, Room 110
Miami, FL 33142
For more information and to register, click here.
Made possible in part by the Wilkie D. Ferguson, Jr. Bar Association Foundation, The Circle of Brotherhood, Caribbean Bar Association, Miami-Dade County and the Miami-Dade Public Library System.
|
|
 |
 |
|
community cleanup
Do the Shore Thing: Help Clean Our Biscayne Bay ⛱
Are you passionate about preserving our stunning local ecosystems? Celebrate Baynanza and join thousands of volunteers in helping to clean up our bay's shoreline during the 42nd annual Biscayne Bay Cleanup Day on Saturday, April 13, from 9 a.m. - noon.
Sign-up to volunteer at any of the 30+ cleanup sites across Miami-Dade County. Volunteers will receive a complimentary commemorative Baynanza t-shirt. Students can also earn community service hours for their participation.
Lend a hand and sign-up to be a hero for our bay today!
|
COUNTY news
Miami-Dade Mayor Daniella Levine Cava Names the County's Next Poet Laureate ✍
Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava kicked off National Poetry Month in a big way. During a news conference at the Main Library in downtown Miami on April 1st, she announced that Caridad Moro-Gronlier will serve as Miami-Dade County's next Poet Laureate.
Caridad, an award-winning, community-driven poet and educator, is the first woman in this role and follows the two-year term of the County's inaugural Poet Laureate Richard Blanco. She says she's honored and grateful to have been appointed.
“I'm excited to engage with our community at large because I believe there is a poem in everyone. Creativity lives within every zip code in Miami-Dade, and I can't wait to get started.”
To watch the livestream of this exciting announcement, click here.
|
|
 |
 |
|
MDPLS poetry series
*Snap, Snap*: Lunchtime Poetry & Jazz at the Library 🎷
Enjoy a relaxing afternoon of rhythms and rhymes as poets Francess Archer Dunbar and Caroline Cabrera read their poetry while accompanied by the Diego Melgar Jazz Trio.
Thursday, April 4, Noon - 1 p.m.
Main Library
Hosted by Miami-Dade County Poetry Ambassador Nicole Tallman and Library Curator and Poet Oscar Fuentes.
|
 |
Employee Spotlight
IT Technician Victor Tapia Helps Keep the Library Connected 🌐
Victor Tapia's lifelong passion for tinkering and fixing things led him to pursue a career in Information Technology (IT). Originally bringing his IT expertise from an investment bank, he joined Miami-Dade County's Information Technology Department (ITD) 18 years ago as a computer technician, ensuring smooth operations across various locations.
Today, Victor oversees the management and maintenance of all internet-accessible devices and equipment within the Library's YOUmake and YOUmedia digital media literacy spaces.
What inspired you to pursue an IT career?
My perception of computers shifted from indifference to appreciation once I recognized how powerful of a tool they are. The dynamic nature of this field, full of challenges and opportunities, ultimately drove me to pursue a career in IT.
What is your favorite part about working for ITD/providing IT services for the Library?
My favorite part is interacting with library staff and assisting them with their technical questions. I also enjoy preparing our renovated and new library branches for their grand (re)openings. It's a rewarding challenge.
What was the last book or eBook you read and what did you think of it?
I recently revisited The Pursuit of Happyness by Chris Gardner. This book resonates with me on a personal level, serving as a source of inspiration to never give up and always strive for improvement, in spite of adversity.
With the rapid pace of technological advancement, many people feel left behind. What advice would you give to those who struggle to adapt?
Always stay curious and don’t hesitate to try new programs and technologies. Focus on the journey of learning, not the destination!
Is there anything else you’d like to let us know about yourself?
I love playing tennis and soccer, although it has been some time since I last played. I also enjoy listening to music.
|
 |
Explore Engaging Local Author Events at the Library 📖
 |
|
The Parker Pen Incident: Memories of a Cuban Pedro Pan Boy with Lomberto Pérez Plasencia ✈
Embark on a remarkable journey as Lomberto Pérez Plasencia recounts his escape as a young boy from Cuba's emerging regime through Operation Pedro Pan.
A Q&A session will follow the author's memoir presentation. Registration is required. Ages 18 years and up.
Saturday, April 6, 2:00 - 3:30 p.m.
Coral Gables Branch Library
|
 |
|
Look at Me! with Charnese Brown 👀
Follow the story of a young girl who learns to pursue her passions as local author Charnese Brown shares her delightful picture book, Look at Me!, a story that encourages younger readers to dream big and never give up.
Stay after the reading for fun coloring and career day dress-up activities. Registration is required. Ages 4 - 6 years.
Saturday, April 13, 3 - 4 p.m.
Arcola Lakes Branch Library
|
 |
|
Cat Tale: The Wild, Weird Battle to Save the Florida Panther with Craig Pittman 🐱
Discover the conservation success story of the Florida panther as best-selling author and award-winning environmental reporter Craig Pittman presents his insightful and witty book.
Enjoy refreshments and live music before the event. Registration is required. Ages 19 years and up.
Monday, April 15, 5:30 - 7:30 p.m.
Coral Gables Branch Library
|
online research & learning tools
Unlock a world of online library resources that can help you be a smarter consumer. Access comprehensive car maintenance guides on Chilton Library, get unbiased appliance and product reviews from Consumer Reports or enroll in a LinkedIn Learning DIY course for helpful tips and ideas – all accessible 24/7, free with your library card. For more information and resources, visit www.mdpls.org/learning.
|
|
|
Unpack all the amazing events we have in store for you at the Library! Relax with soothing Spanish guitar performances, unleash your inner Jedi with a Sith Lord selfie and much more.
In addition to the programs highlighted here, you can also visit our online Calendar of Events to see what else is happening at your library. Select a date and filter your search by event type, keyword, age range or library location to get started.
|
Spanish Guitar Serenade
Enjoy a variety of classical and flamenco pieces performed by guitarist Francisco Valle. All ages.
Saturday, April 6, 1 - 2 p.m.
Virrick Park Branch Library
Air Fryer Desserts
Learn how to make air-fried sweet treats and indulge in delicious samples following the demonstration. Registration is required. Ages 19 years and up.
Wednesday, April 10, 6 - 7 p.m.
North Dade Regional Library
GeekFest @ the Library
Meet your favorite Star Wars characters from a galaxy far, far away and snap a photo with them! All ages.
Saturday, April 13, 1 - 3 p.m.
West Kendall Regional Library
Presented by The 501st Legion, a worldwide Star Wars costuming organization comprised of and operated by Star Wars fans.
|
|
|
|
|
