TECHNOLOGY GADGETS: MEET AND GREET!!

Saturday, Jan. 8, 3 p.m.

Upper Tampa Bay Regional Public Library, 11211 Countryway Blvd., Tampa

FREE

Have you heard of the iPad, iPod and E-Book readers? Have you seen the new generation of digital cameras and camcorders? Do you wish you could see what they actually do? Join us for this free program to meet some of these wonderful technology tools up close and personal!

For more information about this and other FREE programs @ your library®, call (813) 273-3652 or visit www.hcplc.org.

SHADES OF BLUE & GRAY: THE CIVIL WAR IN TAMPA BAY

Saturday, Jan. 8, 2 p.m.

John F. Germany Public Library, 900 N. Ashley Dr., Downtown Tampa

FREE

Ross Lamoreaux will give a presentation and discussion of Confederates, Federals, and citizens of the Tampa Bay area and the impact of the war on their lives, with a focus on Fort Brooke and its troops.

For more information about this and other FREE programs @ your library®, call (813) 273-3652 or visit www.hcplc.org.

Introduction To Tai Chi

Saturday, Jan. 8, 2 p.m.

Bloomingdale Regional Library, 1906 Bloomingdale Ave., Valrico

FREE

Relax the mind and strengthen the body and spirit with the ancient Chinese martial art of Tai Chi. Instructors will demonstrate the basics. People of all skill levels are welcome. Wear comfortable clothing.

For families and adults.

Presented in partnership with the Taoist Tai Chi Society. Funded by the Friends of the Bloomingdale Regional Library. For more information about this and other FREE programs @ your library®, call (813) 273-3652 or visit www.hcplc.org.

OPENING ART RECEPTION

Thursday, Jan. 6, 6:30 p.m.

SouthShore Regional Library, 15816 Beth Shields Way, Ruskin

FREE

Please welcome artists Diane Simon and Cynthia Wortmann for this interesting show of watercolors and pastels. Diane and Cynthia are accomplished artists and very well known in the SouthShore arts community. Light refreshments and music will be provided. Free to the public.

Funding provided by the Friends of SouthShore Regional Library and co-sponsored by the SouthShore Arts Council. For more information about this and other FREE programs @ your library®, call (813) 273-3652 or visit www.hcplc.org.

Introduction To Tai Chi For Teens

Thursday, Jan. 6, 3:30 p.m. and Jan. 20, 6:30 p.m.

Bloomingdale Regional Library, 1906 Bloomingdale Ave., Valrico

FREE

Relax the mind and strengthen the body and spirit with the ancient Chinese martial art of Tai Chi. Instructors will demonstrate the basics. People of all skill levels are welcome. Wear comfortable clothing.

For ages 12 to 17 years.

Presented in partnership with the Taoist Tai Chi Society. Funded by the Friends of the Bloomingdale Regional Library. For more information about this and other FREE programs @ your library®, call (813) 273-3652 or visit www.hcplc.org.

YOU, TODDLER AND YOGA

Thursday, Jan. 6, 13, 20, 17, 10:30 a.m.

North Tampa Branch Library, 8916 North Boulevard, Tampa

FREE

Introduce your toddler to yoga now and they will love it for life! We will use yoga postures, song, and dance to encourage toddlers to be expressive. Please bring a yoga mat or a large beach towel. For children ages 1 to 3 years and their adult caregivers.

Funded by the Friends of the North Tampa Branch Library. For more information about this and other FREE programs @ your library®, call (813) 273-3652 or visit www.hcplc.org.

Master Gardener: Dog Friendly Yard

Wednesday, Jan. 5, 6:30 p.m.

Bloomingdale Regional Library, 1906 Bloomingdale Ave., Valrico

FREE

Join us as Liz Eginton gives tips on how to maintain a dog friendly yard.

Co-sponsored by the Master Gardeners of the Hillsborough County Extension Service and the University of Florida. For more information about this and other FREE programs @ your library®, call (813) 273-3652 or visit www.hcplc.org.

MASTER GARDENER: BULBS

Tuesday, Jan. 4, 6:30 p.m.

Austin Davis Public Library, 17808 Wayne Rd., Odessa

FREE

Join the Master Gardener to learn all about bulbs that will supply years of spring color in your yard.

Co-sponsored by the Master Gardeners of the Hillsborough County Extension Service and the University of Florida. For more information about this and other FREE programs @ your library®, call (813) 273-3652 or visit www.hcplc.org.

Technology Gadgets: Meet And Greet!!

Tuesday, Jan. 4, 5:30 p.m. C. Blythe Andrews Public Library,
FREE
Have you heard of the iPad, iPod and E-Book readers? Have you seen the new generation of digital cameras and camcorders? Do you wish you could see what they actually do? Join us for this free program to meet some of these wonderful technology tools up close and personal!
For more information about this and other FREE programs @ your library®, call (813) 273-3652 or visit www.hcplc.org.

FAMILY TIME: CHRIS VAN ALLSBURG AND THE POLAR EXPRESS

Monday, Dec 20, 5 p.m.

Lutz Branch Library, 101 Lutz-Lake Fern Rd., W., Lutz

FREE

Share in the magic of The Polar Express as we listen for the sound of the bell during the reading of his famous book. Each child will create their own "express train" to take home.

For more information about this and other FREE programs @ your library®, call (813) 273-3652 or visit www.hcplc.org.

TECHNOLOGY GADGETS: MEET AND GREET!!

Monday, Dec 20, 2 p.m.

Town 'N Country Regional Public Library, 7606 Paula Dr., Tampa

FREE

Have you heard of the iPad, iPod and E-Book readers? Have you seen the new generation of digital cameras and camcorders? Do you wish you could see what they actually do? Join us for this free program to meet some of these wonderful technology tools up close and personal!

For more information about this and other FREE programs @ your library®, call (813) 273-3652 or visit www.hcplc.org.

RIVERVIEW LIBRARY HOLIDAY CELEBRATION WITH THE ROUGH DIAMOND BAND

Saturday, Dec 18, 3 p.m.

Riverview Branch Library, 10509 Riverview Dr., Riverview

FREE

The Riverview Library Holiday Celebration rings in the season with live festive country music from Kenny Flint and the Rough Diamond Band. Flint and his band are a well-known local act that plays a variety of country and Southern rock. This performance will feature country-inspired renditions of holiday favorites.

Funding for this program provided by the Friends of the Riverview Branch Library. For more information about this and other FREE programs @ your library®, call (813) 273-3652 or visit www.hcplc.org.

Block Party!

Thursday, Dec 16, 6 p.m.

Jimmie B. Keel Regional Library, 2902 W. Bearss Ave., Tampa

FREE

Kids use LEGO building blocks to build a creative, fun and interactive project. The library provides the LEGOs; kids provide the imagination!

For kids in grades 1 to 5.

Funded by the Friends of the Jimmie B. Keel Regional Library. For more information about this and other FREE programs @ your library®, call 813-273-3652 or visit www.hcplc.org.

HOLIDAY MOVIE

Wednesday, Dec 15, 6:30 p.m.

New Tampa Regional Library, 10001 Cross Creek Blvd, Tampa

FREE

Take time out from your holiday shopping to enjoy a Christmas movie to bring out your holiday cheer. For Teens and Adults.

For more information about this and other FREE programs @ your library®, call (813) 273-3652 or visit www.hcplc.org.

ADULT/TEEN HANDMADE PAPER ORNAMENT ART CLASS

Wednesday, Dec 15, 6 p.m.

SouthShore Regional Library, 15816 Beth Shields Way, Ruskin

FREE

Adults and Teens will create handmade paper and then shape the paper into holiday ornaments. Have fun creating something for yourself or a present for someone special. Art instructor Minnette Webster will teach this interesting class. Limit 20. Register at the Information Desk or call 273-3652.

Funding for this program provided by the Friends of SouthShore Regional Library. For more information about this and other FREE programs @ your library®, call (813) 273-3652 or visit www.hcplc.org.

BOOK-TO-FILM DISCUSSION

Wednesday, Dec 15, 1:30 p.m.

Brandon Regional Library, 619 Vonderburg Dr., Brandon

FREE

Based on a short story by Truman Capote. Abandoned by his parents, Buddy is sent to live with elderly relatives in a small Southern town. The strong bond he develops with his spinster cousin Sook remains his most enduring childhood memory.

Copies of the book are available at the library. For more information about this and other FREE programs @ your library®, call (813) 273-3652 or visit www.hcplc.org.

PUPPET SHOW: SANTA CLAUS FOREVER

FREE

Even Santa has his bad days and is considering retirement! Can anyone take his place? You’ll chuckle throughout this bunraku puppet performance performed in a full-sized stage setting.

Presented by the Creative Arts Theater of the City of Tampa Parks and Recreation Department for children ages 3 and up. For more information about this and other FREE programs @ your library®, call (813) 273-3652 or visit www.hcplc.org.

Wednesday, Dec 15, 10:30 a.m., 3:30 p.m.

Austin Davis Public Library, 17808 Wayne Rd., Odessa

Thursday, Dec 16, 3:30 p.m.

North Tampa Branch Library, 8916 North Boulevard, Tampa

LUTZ BRANCH LIBRARY PRESENTS AN "ENTOURAGE" HOLIDAY

Tuesday, Dec 14, 6:30 p.m.

Lutz Branch Library, 101 Lutz-Lake Fern Rd., W, Lutz

FREE

The concert will be presented at the Lutz Community Center, next to the Library.

The Lutz Branch Library presents “Entourage,” Steinbrenner High School’s premier performing group. Under the masterful direction of JoLinda Crump, this talented ensemble, featuring 14 singers and a 4-piece band, offers seasonal selections sure to make your Holidays merry and bright.

Funding for this program is provided by the Friends of the Lutz Branch Library. For more information about this and other FREE programs @ your library®, call (813) 273-3652 or visit www.hcplc.org.

WONDERS OF THE NIGHT SKY

Monday, Dec 13, 7 p.m.

New Tampa Regional Library, 10001 Cross Creek Blvd., Tampa

FREE

Find out what heavenly objects are visible from your backyard through a multimedia presentation. Learn about meteor showers, planets, our moon, and more! Weather permitting, an outdoor viewing session will occur. Telescopes will be available but you are welcome to bring your own binoculars or telescopes.

For more information about this and other FREE programs @ your library®, call (813) 273-3652 or visit www.hcplc.org.

DANCING WITH JANSEN

Monday, Dec 13, 7 p.m.

SouthShore Regional Library, 15816 Beth Shields Way, Ruskin

FREE

Join us for a fun and "moving" time with the Jansen Dance Company. Children will experience dance through dance games, improvisation, music, props and their imagination.

For ages 4-12, with a caregiver. Funding for this program provided by the Friends of the SouthShore Regional Library. For more information about this and other FREE programs @ your library®, call (813) 273-3652 or visit www.hcplc.org.

Ask-A-Lawyer: Elder Law

Monday, Dec 13, 6 p.m.

Bloomingdale Regional Public Library, 1906 Bloomingdale Ave., Valrico

FREE

Free legal advice!! Lawyers from the Hillsborough County Bar Association will host a brief informational program on Elder Law topics such as wills, trusts and probate followed by an informal question and answer session.

Presented in partnership with the Hillsborough County Bar Association. For more information about this and other FREE programs @ your library®, call (813) 273-3652 or visit www.hcplc.org.

BRENDAN NOLAN @ JIMMIE B. KEEL REGIONAL LIBRARY

Sunday, Dec 12, 2 p.m.

Jimmie B. Keel Regional Library, 2902 W. Bearss Ave., Tampa

FREE

Irish-born singer and songwriter Brendan Nolan is an accomplished guitarist and also plays bodhran (Celtic drum). He has performed at numerous festivals and acoustic venues throughout North America. With six solo albums to his credit, his original song "Far From Their Home" was published in Sing Out! magazine. "Nolan's poignant story-telling songs are expressed through traditional Celtic stylings, but Nolan can be considered a contemporary artist using old tools" - Anthony Starez, St. Petersburg Times, Florida.

Funding for this program provided by the Friends of the Jimmie B. Keel Regional Library. For more information about this and other FREE programs @ your library®, call (813) 273-3652 or visit www.hcplc.org.

JAN KAMINIS PLATT REGIONAL LIBRARY - 10 YEAR ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION

Sunday, Dec 12, All Day

Jan Kaminis Platt Regional Library, 3910 S. Manhattan Ave., Tampa

FREE

The Friends of the Jan Kaminis Platt Regional Library invite you to help us celebrate the 10 year anniversary of the Jan Platt Regional Library, "From Paper to Digital - Books Are Here To Stay." Join us for a day of special excitement.

For more information about this and other FREE programs @ your library®, call (813) 273-3652 or visit www.hcplc.org.

Introduction To Tai Chi

Saturday, Dec 11, 2 p.m.

Bloomingdale Regional Public Library, 1906 Bloomingdale Ave., Valrico


FREE

Relax the mind and strengthen the body and spirit with the ancient Chinese martial art of Tai Chi. Instructors will demonstrate the basics. People of all skill levels are welcome. Wear comfortable clothing.

For families and adults.

For more information about this and other FREE programs @ your library®, call (813) 273-3652 or visit www.hcplc.org.

WINTER TREATS

Thursday, Dec 9, 6 p.m.

Town ’N Country Regional Public Library

FREE

Make a variety of candies and decorate cookies with sugars and icing. We will also have hot cocoa and S'Mores.

For ages 13-18. Funding for this program provided by the Friends of the Town 'N Country Regional Library. For more information about this and other FREE programs @ your library®, call (813) 273-3652 or visit www.hcplc.org.

The Nutcracker

Thursday, Dec 9, 4 p.m.

Bloomingdale Regional Public Library, 1906 Bloomingdale Ave., Valrico

FREE

Play ’N Around Theatre presents the musical production of The Nutcracker. Be whisked away on a magical adventure to save the Princess from the evil rat king Salsabar.

For more information about this and other FREE programs @ your library®, call (813) 273-3652 or visit www.hcplc.org.

HOLIDAY STAR PARTY

Wednesday, Dec 8, 7 p.m.

SouthShore Regional Library, 15816 Beth Shields Way, Ruskin

FREE

Join presenter Craig MacDougal as we view the night sky with telescopes and binoculars. The Moon and stars will be there to greet you along with the planets.

For more information about this and other FREE programs @ your library®, call (813) 273-3652 or visit www.hcplc.org.

HOLIDAY CRAFTS 2

Wednesday, Dec 8, 2 p.m.

SouthShore Regional Library, 15816 Beth Shields Way, Ruskin

FREE

Join Ms. Michelle as we create two holiday ornaments to take home with you. Registration is required. Please call 273-3652 or stop by the information desk. This day is a school early release date.

For children ages 6-12. Funding for this program provided by the Friends of the SouthShore Regional Library. For more information about this and other FREE programs @ your library®, call (813) 273-3652 or visit www.hcplc.org.

BOOK-TO-FILM DISCUSSION

Wednesday, Dec 8, 1:30 p.m.

Brandon Regional Library, 619 Vonderburg Dr., Brandon

FREE

An endearing old man working as a department store Santa claims he is the real Kris Kringle and changes the lives of all those around him. Based on a novel by Valentine Davies.

For more information about this and other FREE programs @ your library®, call (813) 273-3652 or visit www.hcplc.org.

PUPPET SHOW: SANTA CLAUS FOREVER

Wednesday, Dec 8, 10:30 a.m., 3 p.m.

Riverview Branch Library, 10509 Riverview Dr., Riverview

FREE

Put some humor into your holiday season. Don’t miss out on this amusing episode in Santa’s life. You’ll discover that even Santa has his bad days. Things just aren’t like they used to be back in the “good old days.” Santa is considering retirement! But can anyone take his place? You’ll chuckle throughout this bunraku puppet performance performed in a full-sized stage setting.

Presented by the Creative Arts Theater of the City of Tampa Parks & Recreation Dept. For more information about this and other FREE programs @ your library®, call (813) 273-3652 or visit www.hcplc.org.

HOLIDAY CONCERT WITH ROCKESTRA

Sunday, Dec 5, 2 p.m.

Brandon Regional Library, 619 Vonderburg Dr., Brandon

FREE

Enjoy an hour of orchestrated holiday music with a touch of rock, played by Music Showcase's youth ensemble, Rockestra.

For more information about this and other FREE programs @ your library®, call (813) 273-3652 or visit www.hcplc.org.

FRIENDS OF NORTH TAMPA BRANCH LIBRARY LOBBY BOOK SALE

Sunday, Dec 5, 12:30 p.m.

North Tampa Branch Library, 8916 North Boulevard, Tampa

FREE

Come early and grab big discounts on already discounted books! The Friends of the North Tampa Library are cleaning out some of their inventory and book lovers like you are the winners! Great books at great prices.

For more information about this and other FREE programs @ your library®, call (813) 273-3652 or visit www.hcplc.org.

Jingle Jamboree

Saturday, Dec. 4 at 3:30 p.m.

SouthShore Regional Library, 15816 Beth Shields Way, Ruskin

FREE

Celebrate the holiday season with stories, fun games and other special treats! Don't forget to wear a Santa hat to be festive for the special visit from Mrs. Claus!

For children ages 5 to 12 years.

Funding for this program provided by the Friends of the SouthShore Regional Library. For more information about this and other FREE programs @ your library®, call (813) 273-3652 or visit www.hcplc.org.

NANOWRIMO TGIO WRAP PARTY

Saturday, Dec 4, 2 p.m.

West Tampa Branch Library, 2312 W. Union St., Tampa

FREE

Did you participate in the 2010 NaNoWriMo event during which you completed a 50,000-word novel, from scratch, in just 30 days? Come celebrate your success and your status as a novelist with other NaNoWriMo writers at our ‘Thank God It's Over’ Party.

For more information about this and other FREE programs @ your library®, call (813) 273-3652 or visit www.hcplc.org.

COOKIE RECIPE EXCHANGE

Saturday, Dec 4, 11 a.m.

Science Library @ MOSI, 4801 E. Fowler Ave., Tampa

FREE

The Science Library @ MOSI will be having a cookie recipe exchange. Bring your best cookie recipe to share.

For more information about this and other FREE programs @ your library®, call (813) 273-3652 or visit www.hcplc.org.

THE LITTLE SNOW GIRL

Thursday, Dec 2, 6 p.m.

Upper Tampa Bay Regional Public Library, 11211 Countryway Blvd., Tampa

FREE

Presents packed with tales and toys from far-away countries arrive! With each present, storyteller Katie Adams unwraps a toy that introduces a holiday tale. Katie performs these multi-cultural stories with props, costume pieces and audience participation.

Free tickets available 30 minutes prior to the program. Funded by Friends of Upper Tampa Bay Regional Library. Presented by Katie Adams Make Believe Theater. For more information about this and other FREE programs @ your library®, call (813) 273-3652 or visit www.hcplc.org.

INVESTING IN REAL ESTATE

Wednesday, Dec 1, 6:30 p.m.

Jimmie B. Keel Regional Library, 2902 W. Bearss Ave., Tampa

FREE

Real estate prices have dropped considerably over the last several years making this a good time to invest in real estate. At this seminar, an experienced real estate attorney will explain the pitfalls in real estate investing that are not present in other types of investing, and how to avoid them. The attorney will also answer questions on this topic from the audience.

Presented by Bay Area Real Estate Council. For more information about this and other FREE programs @ your library®, call (813) 273-3652 or visit www.hcplc.org.

BANKING AND SHOPPING ONLINE: HOW TO STAY SAFE

Wednesday, Dec 1, 6 p.m.

SouthShore Regional Library, 15816 Beth Shields Way, Ruskin

FREE

Just in time for the holiday shopping season... The Internet is changing quickly. Despite having good security software, consumer's credit card accounts are still often compromised.

It’s hard to find good advice online beyond reading the privacy policy of the website, watching your credit card statements, and looking for third-party seals of approval. Dave Palmer of the Hillsborough County Extension Service discusses ways to be more proactive. In addition, we will cover some basic internet security practices as a foundation for discussion.

For more information about this and other FREE programs @ your library®, call (813) 273-3652 or visit www.hcplc.org.