Tail Waggin' Tutors

Friday, May 11 at 4 p.m.

Bloomingdale Regional Public Library, 1906 Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico

FREE

What happens when books, children and dogs are brought together? The development of happy, confident children who love to read! Children take turns reading to an adorable dog.

For children and families.

Presented in partnership with Therapy Dogs International. 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.

Yoga 101: Intro to Yoga for Adults

Thursdays: May 10, 17,
24 and 31 at 12:15 p.m.

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

FREE

Yoga is an activity that can help heal the mind, body and soul. In this one-hour class, Erin Wheeler of Lucky Cat Yoga introduces adults to yoga. Participants will learn basic yoga postures and pranayama (yogic breathing). The class is moderately paced, allowing participants to leave with lots of energy. Participants should wear athletic or comfortable clothing and bring a mat or towel.

For adults.

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

Create A Legacy, Not A Mess

Wednesday, May 9 at 7 p.m.

Brandon Regional Library, 619 Vonderburg Drive in Brandon

FREE

Michelle Passoff, author of Lighten Up! Free Yourself from Clutter, addresses decluttering bulging closets, jammed garages and attics, and piles of papers. Participants will learn how to make space in their lives for accomplishment and satisfaction, in addition to creating an environment that contributes to overall emotional, mental and physical well-being.

For adults. Funded by the Friends of the Brandon Library.

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

Kindermusik For Preschoolers

Wednesday, May 9
at 10:15 and 11 a.m.

Lutz Branch Library, 101 Lutz-Lake Fern Road, W. in Lutz

FREE

Joyful Child Studio brings families together while encouraging children to grow through the power of music! This series brings music into children’s daily routines to improve their ability to create, express, reason and think.

For children ages 2 to 5 years, along with their caregivers.

Funded 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.

Starting A Business

Tuesday, May 8 at 7 p.m.

Brandon Regional Library, 619 Vonderburg Drive in Brandon

FREE

Considering starting a business? Even a small home business must comply with laws and regulations. An attorney will discuss legal considerations for business owners including advertising, financing and labor laws.

For adults.

Presented by the Brandon Bar Association. For more information about this and other FREE programs @ your library®, call 813-273-3652 or visit www.hcplc.org.

Naturalization Assistance Workshop And Citizenship Class Enrollment

Tuesday, May 8 at 3 p.m.

SouthShore Regional Library, 15816 Beth Shields Way in Ruskin

FREE

Naturalization Specialist Marija Hannen will answer questions about the requirements and process of becoming a U.S. citizen. She will also help individuals who need assistance preparing for the exam and interview. After the workshop there will be an opportunity to enroll in a citizenship class.

For adults.

Presented by the Gulf Coast Jewish Family and Community Services. For more information about this and other FREE programs @ your library®, call 813-273-3652 or visit www.hcplc.org.

The Ins And Outs Of Publishing

Monday, May 7 at 6:30 p.m.

Bloomingdale Regional Public Library, 1906 Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico

FREE

Award-winning author Dr. Fran Orenstein will address the elements of publishing, including agents; books on demand; changes in publishing in the last 20 years; eBooks; presenting a finished product; the pros and cons of self-publishing; and traditional versus small presses. A book signing will follow the program.

For adults.

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

Drawing On The Right Side Of The Brain

Monday, May 7 at 6 p.m.

Riverview Branch Library, 10509 Riverview Drive in Riverview

FREE

This class will teach participants how to draw using the right side of the brain, which thinks in patterns and pictures. During this 90-minute program, participants will work on projects together while discovering the artist within.

For adults of all skill levels. Participants must register in advance at the Information Desk or by calling 813-273-3652.

Presented by Annette Webster. Funded 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!

At four locations:

Monday, May 7 at 4 p.m. at the North Tampa Branch Library, 8916 North Boulevard in Tampa

Thursday, May 10 at 6 p.m. at the Jimmie B. Keel Regional Library, 2902 W. Bearss Ave. in Tampa

Monday, May 21 at 6:30 p.m. at the Lutz Branch Library, 101 Lutz-Lake Fern Road, W. in Lutz

Sunday, May 27 at 2 p.m. at the Bloomingdale Regional Public Library, 1906 Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico

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 K to 5.

Funded by the Friends of the North Tampa Branch Library, the Friends of the Jimmie B. Keel Regional Library, the Friends of the Lutz Branch Library and 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.

Puppet Show: Little Red Riding Hood

Monday, May 7 at 3:30 p.m. and
6 p.m. at the Upper Tampa Bay Regional Public Library, 11211 Countryway Blvd. in Tampa

Tuesday, May 8 at 11 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. at the Bloomingdale Regional Public Library, 1906 Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico

FREE

The story of Little Red Riding Hood warns children not to talk to strangers. At the end of this traditional hand puppet performance, learn how the characters from the story come together from foam ball to animated puppet.

For children ages 4 years and up.

Presented in partnership with the Creative Arts Theatre of the City of Tampa Parks and Recreation Department. For more information about this and other FREE programs @ your library®, call 813-273-3652 or visit www.hcplc.org.

HR For Small Business Series

Mondays: May 7, 14;
June 4, 11 at 3:30 p.m.

Lutz Branch Library, 101 Lutz-Lake Fern Road, W. in Lutz

FREE

Come to the library for a spring series of classes teaching small businesses good human resources practices. Local small businesses are encouraged to attend each of the two-hour classes. The May 7 program will discuss recruitment, employment and job candidate selection. On May 14, the focus will be on new employee orientation. The June 4 program will provide information on strategic interviewing. On June 11, the topics will be employee termination and how to end business relationships.

For small businesses, adults. Participants must register in advance by emailing referrals@verizon.net. Limited to 25 participants.

Presented in partnership with Preferred Referral Networking. For more information about this and other FREE programs @ your library®, call 813-273-3652 or visit www.hcplc.org.

Paws To Read!

Monday, May 7 at 3 p.m. at the Brandon Regional Library, 619 Vonderburg Drive in Brandon

Saturday, May 12 at 11 a.m. at the Jimmie B. Keel Regional Library, 2902 W. Bearss Ave.
in Tampa

FREE

The library is going to the dogs! Children are invited to practice reading to a certified therapy dog and enjoy a simple craft.

For children.

Presented in partnership with Project Pup. For more information about this and other FREE programs @ your library®, call 813-273-3652 or visit www.hcplc.org.

Muggle Math

Monday, May 7 at 3 p.m.

Seffner-Mango Branch Library, 410 N. Kingsway Road in Seffner

FREE

Come to the library to explore the math behind the magic of the popular Harry Potter series. Capes and wands are welcome!

For children.

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

Tai Chi With Bonnie Birdsall

Mondays: May 7,
14 and 21 at 1 p.m.

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

FREE

Tai Chi reduces stress and increases alertness, flexibility and stamina. This class accommodates students of varying capabilities, from those participating from a chair due to injury to those studying in preparation to teach. Birdsall modifies each movement to meet the individual needs of each student. Comfortable clothing should be worn for these sessions.

For adults.

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.

Library History Roadshow

Sunday, May 6
from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Seminole Heights Branch Library, 4711 Central Ave. in Tampa

FREE

Come to the Roadshow, and bring Seminole Heights Branch Library photographs, memories and memorabilia to share! The Tampa-Hillsborough County Public Libraries will celebrate their 100th Anniversaries beginning in 2014. To prepare, the libraries have partnered with the Tampa Bay History Center to present the Library History Roadshow. The Library History Roadshow will make stops at library branches throughout Hillsborough County over the next year, gathering and documenting the communities’ library memories, photographs and memorabilia.

Staff and volunteers will work onsite at the Library History Roadshow to digitally scan photos and other printed items that residents bring, and immediately return the originals to their owners. Attendees will delight in recording video and audio stories that share their historical knowledge of and experiences at the Seminole Heights Branch Library.

For families and adults.

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

Kotler Art Gallery Art Reception

Saturday, May 5 at 3 p.m.

John F. Germany Public Library, 900 N. Ashley Drive in Tampa

FREE

Come to the library and enjoy music and refreshments while experiencing the Kotler Art Gallery’s latest exhibit, featuring art by nationally-renowned watercolor artist Arthur Dillard. Dillard’s works will be on display from May 1-31.

For adults and families.

Funded by the Friends of the John F. Germany Public Library. For more information about this and other FREE programs @ your library®, call 813-273-3652 or visit www.hcplc.org.

Talk Like Yoda Day

Saturday, May 5 at 2 p.m.

John F. Germany Public Library, 900 N. Ashley Drive in Tampa

FREE

Children are invited to celebrate Talk Like Yoda Day with Yoda games, Yoda-speak and Yoda crafts to make and take home.

For children.

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

Google+

Saturday, May 5 at 2 p.m.

John F. Germany Public Library, 900 N. Ashley Drive in Tampa

FREE

Learn how to create an account, set privacy settings, upload pictures, search for friends, and set up friend circles on Google+.

For adults. Participants must register in person after 1 p.m. Limit of 12 participants.

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

Diary Of A Wimpy Kid Party

Saturday, May 5 at 1 p.m.

Temple Terrace Public Library, 202 Bullard Parkway in Temple Terrace

FREE

Come to the library for a celebration of the Diary of a Wimpy Kid series. The crafts, games and fun for all at this event will prove that wimpy kids rule!

For children and families.

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

Ancestry Hide And Seek On The Internet

Saturday, May 5 at 11 a.m.

John F. Germany Public Library, 900 N. Ashley Drive in Tampa

FREE

Ancestors could be hiding on the Internet! Seek them out in this session with professional genealogist Donna Moughty. Moughty’s lessons from more than 20 years of family research will teach participants how the Internet is organized and the best search engines and databases to discover their hidden ancestors.

For adults.

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

Leah's Cartooning

Saturday,
May 5 at 10:30 a.m.

Bloomingdale Regional Public Library, 1906 Bloomingdale Ave.
in Valrico

FREE

Join local teen artist Leah Lopez as she teaches participants how to draw and color cartoons. Materials will be provided. After the class, in honor of Free Comic Book Day, free comic books will be given (first-come, first-served) between 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m., or until the supply runs out. Limit of two free comic books per person.

For children, teens and families. Participants must pick up a free ticket at the Ask Me Kiosk after 10 a.m. Limit of 50 participants.

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.

Free Comic Book Day

Saturday, May 5 at 10 a.m.

North Tampa Branch Library, 8916 North Boulevard in Tampa

FREE

In honor of Free Comic Book Day, come to the library to receive free comic books and participate in art activities.

For children and families.

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.

Tai Chi With Bonnie Birdsall

Fridays: May 4, 11,
18 and 25 at 1 p.m.

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

FREE

Tai Chi reduces stress and increases alertness, flexibility and stamina. This class accommodates students of varying capabilities, from those participating from a chair due to injury to those studying in preparation to teach. Birdsall modifies each movement to meet the individual needs of each student. Comfortable clothing should be worn for these sessions.

For adults.

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

A Taste Of Vegan With The Friends Of The Charles J. Fendig Library

Thursday, May 3 at 6 p.m.

Charles Fendig Public Library,
3909 W. Neptune St. in Tampa

FREE

Join the Friends of the Charles J. Fendig Library for this evening of fellowship and healthy tastings! Tom Bird will offer samples of delicious vegan cuisine. The Friends will hold their meeting following the tasting. Members and guests are invited.

RSVP requested by Monday, April 30. Contact the library at 813-273-3652 or sign up at the Charles J. Fendig Library's Ask Me Desk.

For more information about this and other FREE programs @ your library ®, call 813-273-3652.

Hillsborough County Libraries Receive Award For Youth Programs

Today (April 20), the Florida Library Association (FLA) presented the Tampa-Hillsborough County Public Library System with its 2012 Betty Davis Miller Youth Services Award for the libraries’ outstanding children’s programs; specifically, those designed for homeschooling families. The award presentation was part of the FLA’s annual conference in Orlando.

In a recognition email, the FLA wrote they were impressed with the Tampa-Hillsborough County Public Libraries’ homeschool programs, and commended the library system for its great ideas to encourage other libraries to meet the growing needs of homeschool families. One of the key judging criteria was that the program could be replicated by other libraries.

"We’re so honored to receive the Betty Davis Miller Award for our homeschool programs,” said Linda Gillon, Hillsborough County’s Manager of Library Programming. “We are pleased to serve all local kids with educational and fun programs, and hope that these serve as inspiration for other library systems.”

The Tampa-Hillsborough County Public Libraries have offered a variety of programs that were aimed to assist homeschooling families, and were open to anyone who wanted to participate. Each program included a short presentation on a learning topic, followed by hands-on experiments and activities. Books on the topics were available for checkout at the end of each program, and handouts were available for follow-up at home. They held:

• Science programs for children ages 5 to 7 and 8 to 11 covering the topics of observation, hypothesis and theory, moon and stars, gravity, properties of matter, plate tectonics, magnets, electrical circuits, robotics, and tornadoes.
• Consumer science programs for children ages 12 and up covering the topics of money and budgeting, banking and loans, career planning, leadership, and nutrition and wellness.

These programs took place at the Bloomingdale Regional Public Library, Riverview Branch Library, Seffner-Mango Branch Library, SouthShore Regional Library and Thonotosassa Branch Library. They are currently being held at the John F. Germany Public Library.

For more information about these and other FREE programs @ your library ®, call 813-273-3652.

Puppet Show: Jack And The Beanstalk

Friday, May 4 at 10:30 a.m.

Town ’N Country Regional Public Library, 7606 Paula Drive, Ste. 120 in Tampa

FREE

Fee, fie, foe, FUN! Children are invited to enjoy a combination of literature, music and storytelling for a great, fun-filled experience. There will be a brief puppet workshop after this Jack and the Beanstalk puppet show.

For children ages 4 years and up.

Presented by Bits ‘n’ Pieces Puppet Theatre. Funded 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.

Traps, Pitfalls And Blunders In The Common Job Search

Friday, May 4 at 10:15 a.m.

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

FREE

Beginning with the initial job advertisement, this class will examine the responding résumé and cover letter, the interview process, and follow-up. Emphasis will be on how to avoid common mistakes that sabotage the job application.

For adults.

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

Motion Commotion

Thursdays: May 3, 10,
17, 24 and 31 at 11 a.m.

John F. Germany Public Library, 900 N. Ashley Drive in Tampa

FREE

This fun and very interactive preschool music and movement program will shake out some sillies.

For children ages 18 months to 5 years, along with their caregivers.

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

Chair Yoga

Wednesdays: May 2
and 23 at 10:30 a.m.

Lutz Branch Library, 101 Lutz-Lake Fern Road, W. in Lutz

FREE

It is never too late to try yoga. Use pranayama (yogic breathing) and slow movements in chairs in a relaxing introduction to yoga. This program is designed for adults of all ages.

For adults.

Funded 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.

The Adventures Of ECO-MAN

Tuesday, May 1 at 3:30 p.m.

Seffner-Mango Branch Library, 410 N. Kingsway Road in Seffner

FREE

Thwack! Kablam! Conserve! A mild-mannered reporter transforms into the superhero ECO-MAN in this children’s program. Battling foes like the electricity wasting HIGH VOLTAGE, he teaches the importance of environmental conservation.

For children.

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

Sherlock Holmes And The Opera Mystery

Tuesday, May 1 at 11 a.m.

Wayne C. Papy Athletic Center, 6925 N. Florida Ave. in Tampa

FREE

Join the Seminole Heights Branch Library at the Wayne C. Papy Athletic Center as the world's most famous detective investigates a diamond theft at the Royal Opera. In this play based on the work of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, Sherlock Holmes must use his skills of observation and disguise, along with audience participation, to solve the mystery.

For children in grades K to 8.

Presented by the Atlantic Coast Theatre for Youth (ACT) through the Seminole Heights Branch Library. Funded by the Friends of the Seminole Heights Library and the Friends of the Library Council Development Committee. For more information about this and other FREE programs @ your library®, call 813-273-3652 or visit www.hcplc.org.

Your Ombudsman: Help For Elderly Patients And Their Caregivers

Tuesday, May 1 at 10:30 a.m.

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

FREE

May is Older Americans Month and National Elder Law Month. Colonel Don Hering, Deputy State Ombudsman of Field Operations with the Florida Ombudsman Program, will describe the help his office provides to elderly patients and their advocates and caregivers, and will address issues related to long-term care facilities.

For adults.

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

No Fuss Foods: Easy Stir-Fry

Tuesdays: May 1 at 10:30 a.m. and May 22 at 6 p.m.

Bloomingdale Regional Public Library, 1906 Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico

FREE

Cooking creative, delicious and nutritious meals does not need to take a lot of time or cost a lot of money. Join Rowena Sjovall of No Fuss Foods as she demonstrates budget-friendly stir-fry recipes.

For adults. Participants must register in advance at the Ask Me Kiosk or by calling 813-273-3652. Limit of 10 participants.

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.

Wonders Of Nature

Monday, April 30 at 7 p.m.

SouthShore Regional Library, 15816 Beth Shields Way in Ruskin

FREE

Children are invited to learn about birds of prey, like the flying raptor, with Matt Edmonds’ Wonders of Nature. They will also have the chance to meet a funny talking parrot and other animals, including one of the largest pythons in the world! The show combines audience participation, conservation and humor.

For children in grades K to 5.

Funded 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.

No Fuss Foods: Creative Tacos

Monday, April 30 at 6 p.m.

Seminole Heights Branch Library, 4711 Central Ave. in Tampa

FREE

Cooking creative, delicious and nutritious meals does not need to take a lot of time or cost a lot of money. Join Rowena Sjovall of No Fuss Foods as she demonstrates budget-friendly taco recipes that explore possibilities beyond the typical ground or shredded beef fillings.

For adults.

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

Interactive Kung-Fu Movie

Monday, April 30 at 6 p.m.

North Tampa Branch Library, 8916 North Boulevard in Tampa

FREE

An unlikely hero! A team of masters! A challenge like no other! One panda works to fulfill his dream and save the town. Will he do it? Children are invited to take part in the action with props, sound effects and a whole lot of fun. Props limited to the first 25 children.

For children.

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.

Teen Afterschool Movie Trivia

Monday, April 30 at 4:30 p.m.

Lutz Branch Library, 101 Lutz-Lake Fern Road, W. in Lutz

FREE

Teens are invited to share movie trivia with other teens to prove how well they know movies!

For teens in grades 6 through 12.

Funded 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.

Puppet Show: Mariposa Martinez And More Tales From Latin America

Saturday, April 28 at 3:30 p.m.

Bloomingdale Regional Public Library, 1906 Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico

FREE

Katie Adams presents a 45-minute puppet show with stories from Latin America that combines audience participation, shadow puppets and storytelling.

For children and families. Participants must register in person after 3 p.m. Limit of 120 participants.

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.

Visit Camp Half-Blood

Saturday, April 28 at 2 p.m.

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

FREE

Welcome, campers! Children are invited to dress as favorite sons or daughters of the Olympic gods and play Percy Jackson-themed contests, games and more!

For children and families.

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

The Buzz On Bees

Saturday, April 28 at 2 p.m.

SouthShore Regional Library, 15816 Beth Shields Way in Ruskin

FREE

Explore the amazing world of bees! Local bee enthusiast and keeper John Wilmoth will share his passion for beekeeping and bee conservation. Learn about the different types of bees, their life cycle, and the important role they play. This family-friendly program will highlight the tools of the trade and feature real bees!

For adults and families.

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

Crafternoon

Saturday, April 28 at 2 p.m.

John F. Germany Public Library, 900 N. Ashley Drive in Tampa

FREE

Children are invited to stop by the library and make crafts to take home.

For children.

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

eBooks For Kindle And Kindle Apps

Saturday, April 28 at 10:30 a.m.

John F. Germany Public Library, 900 N. Ashley Drive in Tampa

FREE

Learn how to check out and download free library eBooks to read on the Kindle or any device using the free Kindle app and Overdrive! Also discover how to use library eBooks with an Amazon.com account.

For adults. Participants must register in person after 10 a.m. Limit of 12 participants.

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

Create! Heritage Scrapbook

Saturday, April 28 at 10:30 a.m.

Bloomingdale Regional Public Library, 1906 Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico

FREE

In this interactive workshop, life story writing instructor Lynn Gardner will teach how to make a two-page spread that showcases a family member. Participants should bring three to six photos of a family member, a short paragraph about them, craft adhesive (such as a glue stick.), paper cutter, pen and scissors. All other necessary supplies will be provided.

For adults. Participants must register in advance at the Ask Me Kiosk or by calling 813-273-3652. Limit of 15 participants.

Presented in partnership with the Bloomingdale Writers Connection. 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.

Teen Poetry Jam

Thursday, April 26 at 6 p.m.

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

FREE

Celebrate National Poetry Month at the library’s annual Teen Poetry Jam. Teens are invited to share favorites on the open mic, or just hang out and be motivated by poetry-inspired games and crafts like Godzilla Haiku and Ransom Note Rhymes. Refreshments will be provided.

For teens in grades 6 to 12.

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.

Long-Term Care Insurance Workshop

Wednesday, April 25 at 7 p.m.

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

FREE

Here is some food for thought: a week's stay in a nursing home can cost more than a week at a five-star luxury resort. Join financial experts Kurt Anderson & Associates as they review the ways to safeguard retirement assets, examine insurance options, and plan for the unthinkable.

For adults.

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

Cuban Travelogue

Wednesday, April 25 at 7 p.m.

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

FREE

Join James Demer and his wife as they narrate their recent trip to the travel-restricted island of Cuba. Traveling with a small humanitarian group, they viewed a side of this country, known also as the pearl of the Antilles, seldom seen by Americans. They will reminisce about their journey with pictures and a musical soundtrack.

For adults.

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

After Dark @ Your Library: Poetry Slam

Wednesday, April 25 at 7 p.m.

John F. Germany Public Library, 900 N. Ashley Drive in Tampa

FREE

A poetry slam is a competition amongst poets. For the uninitiated and for the veterans, it is a place to freely and creatively express experiences and gain an appreciation of diverse views. Bring friends and poems; bring the blissful, bring the pitiful; bring the charming and the banal; bring the night its perfect rhythm. A prize will be awarded to the winning poet. Refreshments will be provided.

For adults ages 20 years and up.

Funded by the Friends of the John F. Germany Public Library. For more information about this and other FREE programs @ your library®, call 813-273-3652 or visit www.hcplc.org.

Twain For President

Tuesday, April 24 at 7 p.m.

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

FREE

Come to the library and enjoy Dave Ehlert as he impersonates Mark Twain. Hilarious comedy and timeless humor are featured in his portrayal of this famous American author and humorist.

For adults.

Funded by the Friends of the New Tampa 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: Family Law

Tuesday, April 24 at 6 p.m.

Brandon Regional Library, 619 Vonderburg Drive in Brandon

FREE

Lawyers from the Hillsborough County Bar Association will answer questions about legal issues involving family. Adoption, surrogacy, child custody, time sharing, marriage and divorce are some of the topics that will be discussed.

For adults.

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.

Art Of The Mixtape

Tuesday, April 24 at 4:30 p.m.

North Tampa Branch Library, 8916 North Boulevard in Tampa

FREE

Teens are invited to join the host of a weekly hip-hop radio show for a demonstration on how to make an awesome music mix, and to learn about demos of music, library resources, mix-related websites and software.

For teens.

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.