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| Message from Library Director Pamela Monroe
May is bringing fresh energy to the Leon County Public Library System. As the season changes, we invite you to discover new ideas, meet inspiring voices, and enjoy programs designed for all ages. Whether you’re exploring new technology, connecting with local authors, or trying something creative, there’s something happening at your library this month.
One highlight is the Library Lecture Series, “Words From the Machine: Why AI Chooses the Words It Does,” on Wednesday, May 6, at 6 p.m. at the downtown Main Library. During this engaging talk, Dr. Thomas Juzek and Dr. Zina Ward will explore how artificial intelligence shapes language and communication in our everyday lives.
Readers and book lovers won’t want to miss Discover Your Local Authors, happening Saturday, May 16, at Lake Jackson Branch Library and Saturday, May 30, at the Leon County Main Library. These events offer the chance to hear readings from local writers, ask questions, and get books signed while celebrating the vibrant literary community in our area.
Looking for something interactive? Attend A Taste of Books on Thursday, May 21, at the downtown Main Library, where participants can sample new titles, enjoy mocktails, and discover their next favorite read in a relaxed, social setting.
From creative workshops and family programs to book discussions and community conversations, May is full of opportunities to learn something new and spend time with others.
We look forward to seeing you at the library!
Amazing things are happening,
Pamela Monroe, Library Director |
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Explore the language of artificial intelligence at the next Library Lecture Series, “Words From the Machine: Why AI Chooses the Words It Does,” on Wednesday, May 6, from 6 to 7 p.m. at the Leon County Main Library.
Dr. Thomas Juzek, Assistant Professor of Computational Linguistics at Florida State University, and Dr. Zina Ward, Assistant Professor of Philosophy at Florida State University, will examine how AI systems choose words, why certain language patterns emerge, and how these choices can influence the way people communicate. Drawing on research in linguistics, cognitive science and philosophy, the speakers will offer insight into the growing relationship between human language and machine-generated text.
This thought-provoking lecture provides an opportunity to better understand how AI is shaping everyday communication and to reflect on the broader implications of language in an increasingly digital world. |
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Hear from talented writers in your own community during Discover Your Local Authors, a two-part series featuring live readings across a variety of genres. Each session offers a chance to experience stories firsthand, learn about the writing process, and connect with authors during a relaxed meet and greet and book signing.
On Saturday, May 16, from 1:30-3 p.m. at the Lake Jackson Branch Library, hear from Doug Alderson, Annie B. Jones, Arionne Nettles and M.R. Street. The series continues Saturday, May 30, from 1:30-3 p.m. at the Leon County Main Library with Bruce Ballister, Gina R. Briggs, Melanie A. Rawls and Shannon Richard.
Author books will be available for purchase, or you can bring your own for signing. |
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Celebrate culture, history and style at Crowned in Dignity: The Power of the Church Hat on Saturday, May 2, starting at 12 p.m. at the Dr. B.L. Perry, Jr. Branch Library. This special program explores the cultural significance of the church hat in African-American communities, highlighting its connections to faith, fashion and self-expression. Following the presentation, guests are invited to stay for a high tea featuring light refreshments and conversation in a welcoming, elegant setting. Attendees are encouraged to wear their favorite hats and take part in honoring this meaningful tradition. |
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Mark Emancipation Day in Florida with two engaging programs that explore local history and its lasting impact, presented in partnership with the Museum of Florida History and Florida State University.
Looking Back at Florida’s Emancipation Day will be held Tuesday, May 12, from 3 to 4 p.m. at the Leon County Main Library and Thursday, May 14, from 5 to 6 p.m. at the Fort Braden Branch Library. Museum of Florida History educators will share the story of May 20, 1865, when Emancipation was announced in Tallahassee-Leon County, and highlight connections to landmarks like the Knott House Museum and Union Bank Museum, along with ways to participate in this year’s commemorations.
Uncovering the Past: Florida’s Hidden History takes place Tuesday, May 26, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at the Leon County Main Library. The program features a screening of the documentary Invisible History: Middle Florida’s Hidden Roots, followed by a discussion with director Valerie Scoon, offering insight into lesser-known stories that continue to shape the region today. |
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Get ready for a summer of discovery at the Leon County Public Library. This year’s summer programs, Unearth a Story, bring a full lineup of free activities for all ages throughout June and July.
From hands-on dinosaur adventures and live animal encounters to interactive performances, creative workshops, and family-friendly trivia, there’s something happening weekly at all library locations. Kids can explore fossils and prehistoric life, teens can dig into hands-on activities and games, and adults can enjoy engaging talks, workshops, and creative experiences.
Don’t forget to take part in the Summer Reading Challenge on Beanstack, where readers of all ages can track their progress and earn prizes sponsored by the Friends of the Library.
Mark your calendar and get ready to explore, create, and discover all summer long. |
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Story Time and Stay & Play programs will be on break from Tuesday, May 19, through Saturday, May 30, as we get ready for an exciting summer of reading and fun. Regular story time programming will resume in June with all-new adventures for young readers and their families. |
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All Leon County Public Library locations will be closed on Wednesday, May 20, for Florida’s Emancipation Day, and Monday, May 25, for Memorial Day. The library may be closed but our digital library is always open. Start exploring today! |
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Enjoy engaging Virtual Author Talks with bestselling authors from a wide range of fiction and nonfiction genres. Tune in for these live events with interactive Q&As, or watch the recording afterward.
Upcoming Virtual Author Talks include: Thursday, May 7, at 7 p.m.: Author Talk with Marjan Kamali, internationally bestselling and award-winning author of The Lion Women of Tehran. Tuesday, May 12, at 2 p.m.: Author Talk with Dr. Vivienne Ming, award-winning theoretical neuroscientist, inventor, and author. Tuesday, May 19, at 2 p.m.: Author Talk with Nir Eyal, internationally bestselling author of Hooked and Beyond Belief.
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