Library

Crafternoon at the Larry R. Jackson Branch Library

Early dismissal from school and don't know what to do? Come create with us! We'll supply the materials; you just bring your imagination on Friday, April 24th from 2:30-3:30 pm!

Crafternoon is a monthly, drop-in craft program for kids ages 5-12 and their grownups at the Larry R. Jackson Branch Library, falling on Polk County Public Schools' Early Dismissal Days. No registration required, but things could get messy, so please wear appropriate clothing! Children under the age of 10 must remain with their grown-up in the library throughout the program.

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

Questions? Contact Cassie Walters-Shantal at cassandra.walters-shantal@lakelandgov.net

Manga & Anime Club at Jackson Branch Library

Calling all 13 to 17-year-old anime fans! The LJB Anime club is dedicated to all things manga and anime! We have crafts, anime-related activities, art materials, and snacks. Bring your opinions, recommendations, and come hang out! Join us on Saturday, April 25th from 3 PM to 4:30 PM at the Larry R. Jackson Branch Library!

Please note that some shows might have content intended for a PG-13 audience.

Questions? Contact Marine Acosta Ponce 863.834.1828 or email marine.acostaponce@lakelandgov.net for additional information.

Cross Stitch for Beginners

Join us at the Lakeland Public Library on Wednesday, May 6th, and Thursday, May 7th, from 5 PM to 6:30 PM each day for a two-day workshop and discover the wonderful world of cross stitch. Learn how to read a counted cross stitch pattern, how to complete the stitch, and pick up all the tips and techniques you need to complete your very own project.

This event is for ages 18+. Registration is required and will open on Wednesday, April 29th at 5 PM.

Preschool Storytimes at Lakeland Libraries

All three Lakeland Library locations have preschool storytimes for children ages 2-5 and their grownups! 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) 
May 5, 19

Lakeland Public Library Storytimes (10 AM select Wednesdays) 
April 29
May 6, 13

Larry R. Jackson Branch Storytimes (10 AM select Thursdays) 
May 7, 14, 21

Larry Jackson Branch Library Bilingual Storytime (10 AM last Thursday of the month) 
April 30

For more information, please contact the Kelly Branch Library 863.834.4286, Lakeland Public Library 863.834.4268, or Larry R. Jackson Branch Library 863.834.4288  

There Is a Beautiful Land

...Where all your dreams come true;
It's all tied up in a rainbow,
All shiny and new;
But it's not easy to find
No matter what you do.

Lakeland was known as the "Citrus Center" for decades due to the number of groves, packinghouses and citrus processing plants in the area. The Florida Citrus Commission and Florida Citrus Mutual were both, at one time, located in Lakeland. 

Enjoy this "There Is a Beautiful Land" photographic stroll through Lakeland's citrus history, showcased from our Flickr digital collection.

eBooks, Audiobooks, and Movies Anytime!

Download and enjoy up to 10 ebooks, audiobooks, and movies on your tablet or mobile device for free with OverDrive.

Create a free account with your library card and browse hundreds of titles, with new content added all the time. Plus, Lakeland users have access to additional OverDrive ADVANTAGE titles too!

For a quick and easy way to borrow and read from your library, download and try the Libby app, brought to you by Overdrive!

Build Your Song Library

Access millions of songs and artists with freegalmusic+. Download and keep 5 songs each week absolutely FREE! Plus, unlimited music streaming! Even better? 15,000+ Music videos are available too! 

Visit Freegal Music to get started!