Celebrating Libraries, Our Planet and More! 🎉
Message from Miami-Dade County
Mayor Daniella Levine Cava
April is a month of renewal, discovery, and connection – an opportunity to celebrate the many ways your local public library can enrich your life!
During National Library Week (April 6-12), we recognize our Miami-Dade Public Library System as a cornerstone of learning and opportunity for all. From early literacy programs to career resources and technology access, our libraries empower residents every day. On National Library Workers Day (April 8), we take a moment to thank the dedicated librarians and staff who make these spaces welcoming, innovative and inspiring. Their commitment keeps our libraries thriving.
April is also Earth Month, culminating in Earth Day on April 22 – a reminder of our responsibility to protect and cherish our precious environment. This year, I invite you to explore the Library’s exciting lineup of programs, from stargazing events to sustainability workshops, where residents of all ages can make a positive impact on our planet.
Finally, April is Autism Acceptance Month, a time to recognize neurodiversity and encourage inclusion. Miami-Dade Public Libraries is proud to be recognized as an Autism-Friendly Partner by the University of Miami-Nova Southeastern University Center for Autism & Related Disabilities and to offer sensory-friendly programs that ensure everyone feels welcomed and supported.
Our libraries are more than just buildings filled with books – they are hubs of knowledge, creativity and community. Let’s celebrate them this month and beyond, and build a brighter, more inclusive and sustainable future for all.
Daniella Levine Cava
Mayor, Miami-Dade County
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national library week
Get Drawn to the Library During National Library Week! ✏️
National Library Week is almost here! From April 6-12, we celebrate the important role libraries, librarians and library workers play in transforming lives and strengthening communities.
This year’s theme, Drawn to the Library, highlights how libraries bring people together through creativity, curiosity and connection. Whether you're visiting your local library, exploring our extensive collection of digital resources or attending a library program, whatever draws you in, there's something for everyone.
Visit www.mdpls.org/NLW to explore helpful resources and learn more.
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autism acceptance month
Celebrate Autism Acceptance Month at the Library! ♾
April is Autism Acceptance Month. We invite individuals of all abilities to take part in our sensory-friendly programs, explore valuable resources and deepen their understanding of Autism Spectrum Disorder and neurodiversity.
- Enjoy inclusive storytimes, crafts, music programs and more.
- Check out our Sensory Kits, including noise-reducing earmuffs, for in-library use.
- Explore Social Narratives – simple, visual stories that help prepare you for visits to any of our library locations.
Visit www.mdpls.org/AutismAcceptance to learn more.
The Miami-Dade Public Library System is proud to be recognized as an Autism Friendly Partner by the University of Miami-Nova Southeastern University Center for Autism & Related Disabilities (CARD).
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Civic Engagement Classes
Registration is Now Open for the Miami-Dade County Civics Academy 🤝
Make a difference in Miami-Dade County! Mayor Daniella Levine Cava and Commissioner Marleine Bastien invite you to participate in free civic engagement classes, available online and in-person at five library locations, starting Monday, April 7 through Saturday, May 24.
Learn how to:
- Navigate local government
- Access community resources
- Connect with community leaders and elected officials
- Develop advocacy, public speaking and media engagement skills
Classes are available in English, Spanish, Haitian Creole and offer American Sign Language (ASL) interpretation services.
To view the full class schedule, participating library locations and to register, visit miamidade.gov/civicsacademy.
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ADULT LEARNING ACADEMY
Online Classes: Build Your Financial Confidence 💰
Take control of your finances with our three-week online series designed to help you make informed decisions on a variety of key financial topics, including:
• Choosing the right business structure
• Managing and tracking cash flow
• Planning for taxes
Wednesdays, April 9 - 23
6:00 – 7:30 p.m.
Register Online
Registration is required. Please register for each session individually.
Presented by the Foundation for Financial Planning in partnership with the Financial Planning Association of Miami and Friends of the Miami-Dade Public Library.
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special event
You're Invited: Attend the Friends of the MDPL Book Club Fair 📚
Calling all book lovers! Join the Friends of the Miami-Dade Public Library for their inaugural Book Club Fair on Saturday, April 12 from 1-4 p.m. at the Westchester Library Health & Wellness Center.
Enjoy a fun and engaging day learning the ins and outs of running or joining a successful book club, participating in roundtable discussions led by local book club experts (including some of your favorite librarians), playing exciting games to win prizes and much more!
For more information and to register for this free event, click here.
Presented by The BOOKclubbers Miami and sponsored in part by Bookclubs.com, Books & Books and BookBrowse.
The Friends support the Library through awareness, advocacy and fundraising. Sign up for their newsletter to stay informed about future events.
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resource spotlight
Stay Informed with The Wall Street Journal 💻
Stay updated with the latest news, in-depth analysis and global coverage of current events with The Wall Street Journal, available online for free with your library card!
Read from home or on the go by visiting our website or downloading our free mobile app. Simply create a WSJ account to gain three days of access. When the time expires, log in again using your same credentials to continue reading.
Click here to get started.
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employee spotlight
Marie Blanco Sparks Creativity in Our Community 🌟
Marie Blanco is passionate about serving our community. Before joining the Miami-Dade Public Library System in 1995, she was a full-time college student majoring in drawing and art history. Marie began her library career as a volunteer at the Westchester Regional Library and soon became a Library Page, supporting daily operations and creating art for children’s programs. In 1998, she was promoted to a full-time position and has since served in various roles across the library system.
Now, as manager of the Doral Branch Library, Marie oversees daily operations and programming, ensuring that the library remains a hub of creativity and learning for the community.
What inspired you to pursue a library career?
Growing up, I spent a lot of time at the library participating in programs and events, and I always enjoyed being in that environment. It was fulfilling to see how the library helps people's lives and brings joy to the community. I knew I wanted to continue contributing in a meaningful, long-term way.
What was the last book or eBook you read and what did you think of it?
I’m currently listening to Rembrandt Is in the Wind: Learning to Love Art Through the Eyes of Faith by Russ Ramsey on hoopla Digital. It’s a little bit of everything I love – part art history, part philosophy, faith-based insights and lots of fun facts about famous artists and how their work reflects both historical events and personal experiences.
Do you have a favorite library program or event?
With so many great programs and events offered by the Library, my favorites are the ones where I get to see people of all ages enjoying themselves and lighting up with excitement. Right now, I’m really enjoying our ongoing monthly Let’s Talk Photography program with photographer LaBradaX.
Are you working on any new or upcoming projects?
Yes! I’m currently working on launching a few new programs for the branch, including a painting program for older adults.
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community cleanup
Do the Shore Thing: Help Protect Biscayne Bay 🌊
Take action to protect our beautiful bay and local marine ecosystem during the 43rd annual Biscayne Bay Cleanup Day on Saturday, April 12 from 9 a.m. - noon.
Join thousands of volunteers at one of 30+ cleanup sites across Miami-Dade County. Volunteers and students will receive a free commemorative T-shirt and earn community service hours.
Sign up today and be a champion for our bay!
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LIVE theatrical show
Sing, Dance and Learn with 123 Andrés at the Arsht Center! 🎶
Get ready for a high-energy, bilingual musical adventure for the whole family! Enjoy Grammy-winning duo 123 Andrés as they bring their vibrant mix of Spanish and English songs to life in a free, interactive concert filled with dancing, singing and cultural celebration.
Saturday, April 12, 1:30 p.m.
Knight Concert Hall
Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts
1300 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, FL 33132
For more information and to reserve your free first-access passes, click here.
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aDULT TEST PREP
Preparing for the GED? Project L.E.A.D. Can Help! 🧠
Sharpen your math and science skills with free online tutoring through the Library's Project L.E.A.D. (Literacy for Every Adult in Dade) program. This 10-week series offers 90-minute weekly sessions led by trained volunteers that can help you build confidence, strengthen core concepts and be prepared for the General Educational Development (GED) test. Registration is required. Ages 19 years and up.
Math Tutoring
Wednesdays, April 9 - June 11
6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
Register Online
Science Tutoring
Thursdays, April 10 - June 12
6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
Register Online
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English LITERACY program
ESOL for Children and Family Literacy Series 👨👩👧👦
Build your family's English-language vocabulary and literacy skills during this free, five-week online series. Designed for children ages 6–11 and their parents, each session features fun stories and interactive activities to boost vocabulary in an encouraging environment. Registration is required.
Mondays & Tuesdays
April 14 - May 13, 6 – 8 p.m.
Register Online
Sponsored in part by Florida Humanities and the National Endowment for the Humanities.
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MDPLS Local Author series
Celebrate African Heritage with Alvin Pondexter 🎨
Reflect on culture and creativity as retired visual arts professor Alvin Pondexter presents his book, Art of Africans in the Diaspora. Explore how African cultural design has influenced his artistic process and inspired several of his featured works. Registration is required. Ages 18 years and up.
Saturday, April 12, 2 - 3 p.m.
North Dade Regional Library
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MDPLS Local author series
Enjoy a Tale of Overcoming First Day Fears with Dr. Julissa Artiles 🦒
Follow along as Sunny the giraffe overcomes her fears on the first day of school in Sunny’s First Day, a heartwarming children's book by award-winning author Dr. Julissa Artiles. With help from her mom and new friends, Sunny helps young readers learn to build confidence and embrace new beginnings. Registration is required. Ages 5 - 9 years.
Saturday, April 19, 3:30 - 4:30 p.m.
Kendale Lakes Branch Library
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DVD Collection
Binge-watch the latest popular flicks with our extensive DVD collection! From thrilling sci-fi adventures to laugh-out-loud comedies, enjoy new family-friendly movies, free with your library card. Browse our featured films below and find the perfect pick for your next movie night.
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There’s always something exciting happening at the Library! Enjoy live music, compete in a gaming tournament, hear powerful stories from a Holocaust survivor and more. Whatever you choose, it’s sure to be an unforgettable experience.
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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From Spain to America in Six Strings 🎸
Enjoy an afternoon of vibrant Spanish guitar as local musician Joe Fredd brings to life the rhythms and melodies of Spain, Venezuela, Cuba and Argentina. All ages.
Saturday, April 5, 2 - 3 p.m.
Westchester Regional Library
GeekFest @ Your Library: Gaming Tournaments 🎮
Put your gaming skills to the test in our action-packed Nintendo Switch™ tournaments! Controllers will be provided. Registration is required.
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe Tournament
Saturday, April 12, 12:30 - 2:30 p.m.
West Kendall Regional Library
Ages 6 - 11 years.
Super Smash Bros. Ultimate Tournament
Saturday, April 12, 3 - 5 p.m.
West Kendall Regional Library
Ages 12 - 18 years.
World War II at 80 - Visages of Memory with Laszlo Selly 📷
Join photographer and Holocaust survivor Laszlo Selly for a powerful conversation and exhibition reception exploring memory, survival and the faces of those who endured the Holocaust. Ages 18 years and up.
Thursday, April 17, 6 - 9 p.m.
Miami Beach Regional Library
Presented as part of the Library's World War II at 80 program and Miami Beach Culture Crawl, with the support of the University of Miami, Miami Beach JCC and the Holocaust Memorial Miami Beach.
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