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October 2026

Message from Library Director Pamela Monroe

As we cozy into fall, I always think of this as my true reading season. It’s time for the beach reads to go out with the tide, unless, of course, one is worthy of a reread.

I always laugh when people say, “You’re a librarian. You must read all the time! What do you recommend?” My answer is usually neither fun nor exciting: a nonfiction book about something that will help me do my job better. Every year, I vow to read more for fun, and every year ... well, I disappoint myself.

But fall is different. This is when I get some serious pages in. I’ll grab a fantasy, sci-fi, or romance series and happily disappear into it until sometime around February, or until I’ve finished the entire series, because I’m not a quitter. Single books have their place from March through August. Fall belongs to the series.

There’s just something about cooler weather, fuzzy blankets, hot chocolate, and a great book that kicks my reading season into gear. So join me for the Fall Into Reading Beanstack Challenge. Let’s read, earn some badges, and have a little fun along the way.

Not sure what to pick up next? The staff at the Leon County Public Library are AMAZING at recommendations. They can help you discover something new, track down the next book in a series, or simply talk books with you. You can also have BookBrowse delivered to your inbox for reviews, reading guides, and plenty of inspiration for your next read.

Happy fall and happy reading!

Amazing things are happening,

Pamela Monroe, Library Director

Celebrate America’s 250th anniversary at the next Library Lecture Series, “Florida and the South in the American Revolution,” on Saturday, October 17, from 11 a.m. to noon at the Leon County Main Library.

Dr. Roger Smith, a published historian and adjunct professor of American history at the University of Florida, will explore the often-overlooked roles Florida and the American South played during the American Revolution. A nationally recognized speaker on Revolutionary War history, Smith has served as a consultant for AMC’s Turn: Washington’s Spies and appeared in the PBS documentary Secrets of the Dead: The Secrets of Spanish Florida.

This engaging look at a lesser-known chapter of the Revolution offers an opportunity to commemorate this milestone and gain a broader understanding of the struggle for American independence.

October is TeenTober, a celebration of the ways libraries help teens discover new interests, build skills and connect with others. At the Leon County Public Library, teens can help shape programs and earn volunteer service hours through the Teen Advisory Board, explore career and learning resources, and find their next favorite read.

From dedicated teen spaces to opportunities to get involved, there’s something to discover all year long. Explore our teen programs and resources and find your next inspiration!

The Leon County Main Library’s second floor renovation was recently featured in American Libraries magazine’s 2026 Library Design Showcase, which highlights innovative new and renovated library spaces from across the United States and Canada. The renovated second floor was one of 15 projects selected for this year’s showcase and was recognized for its modern, flexible design and expanded spaces for learning, workforce development and community connection. Congratulations to the library team on this national recognition!

October is Family History Month — the perfect time to discover your roots. Explore census records, vital statistics, and military documents using Ancestry Library, free in person at all library locations. Plus, dig into our genealogy resources available at the downtown Main Library. Start uncovering your family’s story today!

Get cozy and fall head over heels for a new book during the Fall Into Reading Challenge from October 1 through November 30. Readers of all ages can celebrate the season by reading five hours and completing fun fall activities. Earn three activity badges to complete the challenge!

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, October 1, at 7 p.m.: Author Talk with Veronica Roth, New York Times and international bestselling author.

• Tuesday, October 6, at 2 p.m.: Author Talk with Joe Sasto, nationally bestselling author, celebrity chef and pasta innovator.

• Thursday, October 8, at 2 p.m.: Author Talk with Carolyn Russo, Smithsonian curator and author of The Ascent of Rauschenberg: Reinventing the Art of Flight.