Happy Thanksgiving From Your Miami-Dade Public Library System! 🦃
Thanksgiving is a time to reflect on the people and things we're grateful for, and we are especially thankful for you—our wonderful patrons—whose support and engagement make our work so rewarding.
In observance of Thanksgiving, all library locations will be closed Thursday, November 28 through Saturday, November 30. Please note that the Palmetto Bay Branch Library will close for termite treatment over the holiday weekend beginning Wednesday, November 27. Regular service hours will resume Monday, December 2.
Before the holiday break, don't forget to stop by your local library to stock up on books, movies and more for the long weekend. Can’t make it in person? Stay entertained and engaged with our digital resources, available 24/7, free with your library card, including:
If you need assistance during the Thanksgiving weekend, our Customer Care team will be available via email at CustomerCare@mdpls.org Thursday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 4 p.m.
We wish you and your loved ones a joyful and safe Thanksgiving!
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digital collections blog
Discover Miami’s Seasonal Traditions Through the Years 🍴
Ever wondered how Miami's tropical charm and cultural diversity have shaped Thanksgiving celebrations in our community? From festive meals and cherished ceremonies to window displays and relief from mosquitoes, explore how organizations and families in Miami-Dade County commemorated this holiday in our latest Digital Collections Blog.
Curious about other seasonal traditions? Discover more in our Digital Collection.
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community needs survey
Help Shape Our County's Future: Take the Community Needs Survey ✍
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donation drive
Help Miami-Dade's Shelter Pets Have Happy Holidays: Donate a Gift Today! 🐾
Bring holiday cheer to shelter pets by supporting the fourth annual Presents for Pets donation drive, hosted by Miami-Dade County Animal Services in collaboration with the Library!
Make a difference by donating items such as pet beds, blankets, toys and treats to provide comfort and joy to pets as they await their forever homes.
Donations are being accepted now through December 31 at the Animal Services Pet Adoption and Protection Center and select library locations.
For more details and the full list of participating libraries, click here.
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community engagement
Celebrating Creativity: Announcing the Winner and Finalists of Our Library Card Design Contest for Teens! 🏆
We’re excited to announce the winner and top two finalists of the 2024 Library Card Design Contest for Teens!
Congratulations to Daniela Hernandez, whose winning design will be produced as a limited-edition library card available at all library locations next year. Special recognition also goes to our second-place finalist, Sophia Reyes, and third-place finalist, Jorge Martinez. Click here to see their designs.
With nearly 200 submissions, we want to thank all the talented teens who participated in this year’s contest and invite everyone to join us for the Finale Celebration. Enjoy an interactive escape room, a drawing class, fun crafts and more! Registration is required. All ages.
Saturday, December 7, 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Westchester Regional Library
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ART CONTEST
Calling Young Artists: Enter the 2025 All Kids Included Student Art Competition 🎨
The Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs, in partnership with the Library, invites all Miami-Dade students in grades Pre-K–12 to submit original artwork inspired by the book I Will Dance, written by Nancy Bo Flood and illustrated by Julianna Swaney.
Entries should reflect themes of inclusion, resilience and empowerment. Submit your artwork at any library location by February 1, 2025.
For more information, contest rules and instructions, click here.
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employee spotlight
Pilar Flores Champions Lifelong Learning at the Library 📚
Pilar Flores has always been dedicated to serving her community. Before joining the Library in 2020 as a Library Page at the Concord Branch, she built a successful career in administrative and customer service, working as a private-sector consultant. During this time, she honed her organizational and communication skills, laying the groundwork for her future library career.
Now, as a Library Assistant at the Tamiami Branch Library, Pilar oversees circulation and reference services and leads engaging adult programs. Every day, she strives to create a welcoming space where patrons can connect and grow in a supportive environment.
What is your favorite part about working for the Library?
Helping patrons improve their lives through learning. I also enjoy staying updated on trends and promoting lifelong learning through our library services and programs.
What do you consider to be a personal achievement in your career at the Library?
Progressing toward my Master’s degree in Library and Information Science, which I’ll complete in Spring 2025. Balancing studies with work and personal responsibilities has been challenging but rewarding, allowing me to deepen my skills and knowledge. I’m excited to apply what I’ve learned as I grow in my library career!
What was the last book or eBook you read and what did you think of it?
The Art of War by Sun Tzu. It’s a captivating read that deepened my interest in strategic thinking. One key lesson I took away is that great leadership is rooted in trust, wisdom and integrity—qualities essential for guiding and inspiring others effectively.
Is there anything else you’d like to let us know about yourself?
In my free time, I love cooking and gardening. Since being introduced to a variety of collections, I’ve also developed a passion for reading graphic novels whenever I get the chance.
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LIFELONG LEARNING
Mark Your Calendars: Adult Learning Academy Winter Semester Begins in January! 📓
Looking to learn a new language, refine your reading and math skills or prepare for an important exam? The Library's Adult Learning Academy offers free online and in-person evening courses taught by certified teachers. Classes run for 10 weeks and are available to Miami-Dade County residents ages 18 years and up.
The winter semester begins Monday, January 6, 2025. Registration opens Monday, December 2.
For more information, visit www.mdpls.org/AdultLearning.
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Resource spotlight
Make Smart Holiday Shopping Decisions with Consumer Reports 💲
As the holiday season approaches, make informed and budget-friendly gift choices with Consumer Reports online, available 24/7, free with your library card.
Consumer Reports is your hub for exploring the best deals on top products and brands. Access unbiased reviews and ratings on a wide range of products, from electronics and appliances to cars and baby gear. Plus, get tips on how to find the best Black Friday bargains for your budget.
Click here and start saving today.
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Connect and Learn with Local Authors at the Library!
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Learn About Marketing & Publicity for Writers with Krista Soukup 📣
Calling all aspiring writers! Enhance your brand with Krista Soukup’s expert advice on marketing and publicity. Learn how to create effective social media strategies, build a professional online portfolio and streamline your promotional efforts—all while balancing your time to write. Registration is required. Ages 18 years and up.
Monday, December 2, 6 - 8 p.m.
Register Online
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Master the Power of
Purposeful Planning with
Dr. Esther Zeledón 📆
Unleash your potential as Dr. Esther Zeledón presents her empowering book, Creating Your Limitless Life. Explore transformative steps to turn your aspirations into achievements and document them on a vision board to kickstart 2025. Registration is required. Ages 12 years and up.
Saturday, December 7, 11:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
West Kendall Regional Library
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Meet Women Leaders From Around the World with Sheneka S. Brown 🌎
Explore diverse countries and cultures with educator and author Sheneka S. Brown as she shares her children's book, Dear Little Brown Girl: My Travels Around the World. Discover a young girl’s adventures meeting historic women leaders, followed by an interactive geography activity. Registration is required. Ages 4 years and up.
Saturday, December 7, 2 - 3 p.m.
North Dade Regional Library
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To see a full list of upcoming local author events, click here.
Digital music
Get in the holiday spirit with Freegal Music, available 24/7—free with your library card! Stream or download holiday classics and chart-topping hits to craft the ultimate festive playlist. Explore the selected tunes below and start your holiday soundtrack today!
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The holiday season is finally here! Make your season merry and bright with festive Library events and activities for all ages to enjoy.
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.
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Movie Screening: The Muppet Christmas Carol (G) 🎩
Celebrate the holiday season with this heartwarming and humorous Muppet twist on a beloved classic. All ages.
Saturday, December 7, Noon - 2 p.m.
South Miami Branch Library
Stories with Mrs. Claus 👵
Mrs. Claus has arrived from the North Pole, just in time to share stories, Christmas magic and holiday fun! All ages.
Monday, December 9, 4:30 - 5:30 p.m.
North Dade Regional Library
Decorate Your Own Ornament 🎄
Create your very own festive ornament to take home and adorn your tree! Materials will be provided (while supplies last). Ages 3 - 12 years.
Tuesday, December 10, 4 - 5 p.m.
Miami Beach Regional Library
Mama Elf's Magical Story Hour ✨
Gather ‘round with the North Pole’s favorite elf for enchanting holiday stories and festive fun! All ages.
Tuesday, December 10, 6 - 7 p.m.
Naranja Branch Library
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