Florida History with Stories and Songs at the Bloomingdale Regional Library

Saturday, April 12 at 3:30 p.m.
Bloomingdale Regional Public Library, 1906 Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico
FREE

Using original songs and songs written by friends, folk musician James Hawkins will perform live music and discuss the dynamic history of Florida. James’s songs have been recorded by several Florida folk artists, and he has performed at many Florida folk festivals.

For adults.

This program is part of Tampa-Hillsborough County Public Library's Centennial celebration.

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.

The views expressed in this program are those of the presenter(s) and do not necessarily reflect the official policy, position, or opinions of Hillsborough County, Tampa-Hillsborough County Public Libraries, or the Friends of the Library of Tampa-Hillsborough County, Inc. who do not endorse the presenter(s).

National Library Week Centennial Celebration: An Afternoon with “Andrew Carnegie” at the Bloomingdale Regional Library

Saturday, April 12 at 2:00 p.m.
Bloomingdale Regional Public Library, 1906 Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico
FREE

Spend an afternoon celebrating National Library Week and the Library's Centennial with "Andrew Carnegie" as portrayed by local actor Michael Norton. Enjoy learning about the library philanthropist's life and his impact on libraries throughout the world. A meet & greet and photo opportunity will follow the program.

For adults.

This program is part of Tampa-Hillsborough County Public Library's Centennial celebration.

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.

The views expressed in this program are those of the presenter(s) and do not necessarily reflect the official policy, position, or opinions of Hillsborough County, Tampa-Hillsborough County Public Libraries, or the Friends of the Library of Tampa-Hillsborough County, Inc. who do not endorse the presenter(s).

Author Event: Jeff Klinkenberg at the Riverview Branch Library

Saturday, April 12 at 3:00 p.m.
Riverview Branch Library, 10509 Riverview Drive in Riverview
FREE

In anticipation of National Library Week, Tampa Bay Times reporter Jeff Klinkenberg will be on hand to discuss his work and to answer any questions. The author writes about Florida culture and the people who make the state unique. Copies of his latest book, Alligators in B-Flat, along with other works will be available for sale.

A Centennial birthday cake will be provided.

For adults.

This program is part of Tampa-Hillsborough County Public Library's Centennial celebration. 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.

The views expressed in this program are those of the presenter(s) and do not necessarily reflect the official policy, position, or opinions of Hillsborough County, Tampa-Hillsborough County Public Libraries, or the Friends of the Library of Tampa-Hillsborough County, Inc. who do not endorse the presenter(s).

Teen Talent Show: Grand Finale! at the John F. Germany Public Library

Saturday, April 12 at 2 p.m.
John F. Germany Public Library, 900 N. Ashley Drive in Tampa
FREE

Watch the 1st and 2nd place Teen Talent Show champions from around the county compete for ultimate bragging rights and big prizes! Who will be named the most talented teen in Hillsborough County? Show up to find out!

For teens 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.

The views expressed in this program are those of the presenter(s) and do not necessarily reflect the official policy, position, or opinions of Hillsborough County, Tampa-Hillsborough County Public Libraries, or the Friends of the Library of Tampa-Hillsborough County, Inc. who do not endorse the presenter(s).

Make Your Own Book at the Bloomingdale Regional Library

Saturday, April 12 at 1:00 p.m.
Bloomingdale Regional Public Library, 1906 Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico
FREE

Make books to write and draw in.

For children.

This program is part of the National Library Week Open House Celebration.

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.

Spring Cookie Decorating Event at the Seminole Heights Branch Library

Saturday, April 12 at 11:00 a.m.
Seminole Heights Branch Library, 4711 Central Avenue in Tampa
FREE

Presented in partnership with Southeast Seminole Heights Civic Association. Get ready to show off your creative cookie decorating. For all Seminole Heights young and young at heart cookie artists. We provide the cookies and decorations, you create yummy masterpieces.

For all ages.

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

The views expressed in this program are those of the presenter(s) and do not necessarily reflect the official policy, position, or opinions of Hillsborough County, Tampa-Hillsborough County Public Libraries, or the Friends of the Library of Tampa-Hillsborough County, Inc. who do not endorse the presenter(s).

I Spy Fairytales

Saturday, April 12 at 10:00 a.m.
Bloomingdale Regional Public Library, 1906 Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico
FREE

Try to find all the fairytale characters? Search the library to locate them all!

For children.

This program is part of the National Library Week Open House Celebration. 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.

Table for Two- The Cookbook for Couples at the Seminole Heights Branch Library

Monday, April 7 at 6:00 p.m.
Seminole Heights Branch Library, 4711 Central Avenue in Tampa
FREE

Enjoy a presentation with Warren Caterson, the author of "Table for Two" in which he shares time saving kitchen tips, cooking hints and humourous anecdotes about the challenges and joys of cooking for two. The presentation culminates with a 10 minute cooking demonstration that any home cook can replicate.

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

The views expressed in this program are those of the presenter(s) and do not necessarily reflect the official policy, position, or opinions of Hillsborough County, Tampa-Hillsborough County Public Libraries, or the Friends of the Library of Tampa-Hillsborough County, Inc. who do not endorse the presenter(s).

Cemetery Transcription and Headstone Cleaning at the John F. Germany Public Library

Saturday, April 5 at 11:00 a.m.
John F. Germany Public Library, 900 N. Ashley Drive in Tampa
FREE

On Saturday, April 5th, at 11:00 AM the Florida Genealogical Society presents: Ms. Rebecca O' Sullivan for a discussion on issues related to grave transcription and she will also provide tips on cleaning headstones and their maintenance.

For adults.

This is the monthly meeting of the Florida Genealogical Society. The meeting will be held in the Auditorium.

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

The views expressed in this program are those of the presenter(s) and do not necessarily reflect the official policy, position, or opinions of Hillsborough County, Tampa-Hillsborough County Public Libraries, or the Friends of the Library of Tampa-Hillsborough County, Inc. who do not endorse the presenter(s).

Riverview Branch Library Book Sale at the Riverview Branch Library

Saturday, April 5 at 10:00 a.m.
Riverview Branch Library, 10509 Riverview Drive in Riverview
FREE

The Friends of the Riverview Branch Library will be holding a book sale to raise funds for the library. All Ages. Sponsored 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.

Teen Talent Show at the Tampa- Hillsborough County Public Libraries

• Saturday, April 5 at 2:00 p.m. at the West Tampa Branch Library, 2312 W. Union St. in Tampa
• Saturday, April 5 at 3:00 p.m. at the New Tampa Regional Library, 10001 Cross Creek Blvd. in Tampa
FREE

Like to sing, dance, do stand-up comedy or have a unique talent? Want to perform in front of an audience for a chance to win cash? The top three winners of each participating library will be invited to perform at the Grand Finale at the John F. Germany Public Library for a chance to win more cash! Sign up for the Teen Talent Show! Register solo or as a group for a chance at stardom.

Registration forms are available at the information desk of participating libraries.

For teens.

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

Puppet Show: The Gingerbread Boy at these Tampa-Hillsborough County Public Libraries

• Wednesday, April 2 at 11:00 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. at the Riverview Branch Library, 10509 Riverview Drive in Riverview
• Thursday, April 3 at 10:15 a.m. at the Seminole Heights Branch Library, 4711 Central Avenue in Tampa
• Thursday, April 10 at 10:30 a.m. at the Thonotosassa Branch Library, Thonotosassa Branch Library, 10715 Main St. in Thonotosassa
• Monday, April 14 at 10:30 a.m. at the Firehouse Cultural Center, 101 1st Ave NE in Ruskin
• Wednesday, April 30 at 10:15 a.m. at the Seffner-Mango Branch Library, Seffner-Mango Branch Library, 410 N. Kingsway Road in Seffner
FREE

"Run, run, as fast as you can. You can’t catch me, I’m the Gingerbread Man!” The Gingerbread Boy has escaped from the oven and is running away from the little old woman, the little old man and quite a few other animals! Find out who will be lucky enough to capture him, or if he successfully escapes!

For children 3 and up. Presented by 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.

The views expressed in this program are those of the presenter(s) and do not necessarily reflect the official policy, position, or opinions of Hillsborough County, Tampa-Hillsborough County Public Libraries, or the Friends of the Library of Tampa-Hillsborough County, Inc. who do not endorse the presenter(s).

New Tampa Reader's Theater at the New Tampa Regional Library

Tuesday, April 1 at 6:00 p.m.
New Tampa Regional Library, 10001 Cross Creek Blvd. in Tampa
FREE

Join members of the New Tampa Teen Advisory Board as we bring stories to life by reading them in script form as a group - participation is voluntary. Reader's theater can improve reading skills and comprehension - and it's fun!

For children and teens. 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.

Dog and Baby Connection at the Lutz Branch Library

Monday, March 31 at 6:30 p.m.
Lutz Branch Library, 101 Lutz-Lake Fern Road, W. in Lutz
FREE

Join dog trainer Amy Weeks, as she explains ways to keep young children safe in a home with a dog. Amy illustrates practices that parents of babies and toddlers can use to make the interaction between an established dog and the child safer and less stressful, both on the dog and the parents.

For adults.Storytime will be provided for preschool children during this program.

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 views expressed in this program are those of the presenter(s) and do not necessarily reflect the official policy, position, or opinions of Hillsborough County, Tampa-Hillsborough County Public Libraries, or the Friends of the Library of Tampa-Hillsborough County, Inc. who do not endorse the presenter(s).

Ronny Elliott Concert at the Jan Kaminis Platt Regional Library

Sunday, March 30 at 3:00 p.m.
Jan Kaminis Platt Regional Library, 3910 S. Manhattan Ave. in Tampa
FREE

Ronny Elliott, renowned for “craggy but literary country blues, like Jerry Lee Lewis if he were a beat poet…” brings his original music back home to Tampa in a special performance with fellow musician Harry Hayward.

For adults.

Funded by the Friends of the Jan Kaminis Platt Regional Library.

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

The views expressed in this program are those of the presenter(s) and do not necessarily reflect the official policy, position, or opinions of Hillsborough County, Tampa-Hillsborough County Public Libraries, or the Friends of the Library of Tampa-Hillsborough County, Inc. who do not endorse the presenter(s).

Puppet Show: The Gingerbread Boy at these Tampa-Hillsborough County Public Libraries

Several times/locations:
•Monday, March 24 at 10:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. at the Jan Kaminis Platt Regional Library, 3910 S. Manhattan Ave. in Tampa
• Tuesday, March 25 at 11:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. at the Lutz Branch Library, 101 Lutz-Lake Fern Road, W. in Lutz
• Wednesday, March 26 at 11:45 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. at the Upper Tampa Bay Regional Library, 11211 Countryway Blvd. in Tampa
FREE

Run, run, as fast as you can. You can’t catch me, I’m the Gingerbread Man!” The Gingerbread Boy has escaped from the oven and is running away from the little old woman, the little old man and quite a few other animals! Find out who will be lucky enough to capture him, or if he successfully escapes!

For children ages 3 and up.

Presented by 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.

The views expressed in this program are those of the presenter(s) and do not necessarily reflect the official policy, position, or opinions of Hillsborough County, Tampa-Hillsborough County Public Libraries, or the Friends of the Library of Tampa-Hillsborough County, Inc. who do not endorse the presenter(s).

Youth Art Exhibit at the John F. Germany Public Library

Sunday, March 23 at 2:00 p.m.
John F. Germany Public Library, 900 N. Ashley Drive in Tampa
FREE

In celebration of Youth Art Month, Hillsborough Art Education Association (HAEA) is pleased to exhibit 2D and 3D work by HAEA members’ students throughout the months of March and April. Awards will be presented at 2:30 p.m. on March 23rd on 1W, the Children’s Department of the John F. Germany Library.

For children and teens in grades 1 to 12.

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

The views expressed in this program are those of the presenter(s) and do not necessarily reflect the official policy, position, or opinions of Hillsborough County, Tampa-Hillsborough County Public Libraries, or the Friends of the Library of Tampa-Hillsborough County, Inc. who do not endorse the presenter(s).

Book Discussion: Practical Magic by Alice Hoffman at the 78th Street Community Library

Saturday, March 22 at 3:00 p.m. 78th Street Community Library, 7625 Palm River Road in Tampa
FREE

For more than two hundred years, the Owens women had been blamed for everything that went wrong in their Massachusetts town. Gillian and Sally endured that fate as well; as children, the sisters were outsiders. Their elderly aunts almost seemed to encourage the whispers of witchery, but all Gillian and Sally wanted was to escape. One would do so by marrying, the other by running away. But the bonds they shared brought them back-almost as if by magic...

For adults.

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

CANCELED: Sonny & Perley Present: The Golden Age Of Popular Song at the SouthShore Regional Library

Saturday, March 22 at 3:00 p.m.
SouthShore Regional Library, 15816 Beth Shields Way in Ruskin
FREE

Well-known jazz duo Sonny Daye and Perley Rousseau (vocalist) perform a concert featuring hits from the Great American Songbook and the golden age of popular song, including movie standards like Moon River, My Favorite Things, and Send in the Clowns. They also include significant songs of the era now considered standards.

All ages.

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.

The views expressed in this program are those of the presenter(s) and do not necessarily reflect the official policy, position, or opinions of Hillsborough County, Tampa-Hillsborough County Public Libraries, or the Friends of the Library of Tampa-Hillsborough County, Inc. who do not endorse the presenter(s).

The Bald Eagle at the Seffner-Mango Branch Library

Wednesday, March 19 at 6:00 p.m.
Seffner-Mango Branch Library, 410 N. Kingsway Road in Seffner
FREE

Children grades K-5 will learn all about our national bird, the bald eagle. Each child will receive an eagle activity book. For children K to 5. Presented by Nancy Murrah of Wildlife Fundamentals.

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.

The views expressed in this program are those of the presenter(s) and do not necessarily reflect the official policy, position, or opinions of Hillsborough County, Tampa-Hillsborough County Public Libraries, or the Friends of the Library of Tampa-Hillsborough County, Inc. who do not endorse the presenter(s).

Interactive Classic Movie at the 78th Street Community Library

Saturday, March 15 at 3:00 p.m.
78th Street Community Library, 7625 Palm River Road in Tampa
FREE

Follow the yellow brick road to set on this grand movie musical adventure. Take part in the action with props, sound effects, and a whole lot of fun. Props limited to the first 15 children. Rated PG, 110 minutes.

All ages.

Pick up a free ticket one hour before the film.

Refreshments are provided by the Friends of the 78th Street Community Library.

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

Children's Magic Show with Elliott Smith at the New Tampa Regional Library

Monday, March 10 at 7:00 p.m.
New Tampa Regional Library, 10001 Cross Creek Blvd. in Tampa
FREE

Join magician Elliott Smith as he dazzles audiences and leaves them rolling in the aisles. He maximizes the use of comedy, wit and fun. Children’s participation is encouraged and many are given the opportunity to become the magician’s assistant. If you are looking to laugh and have a good time, then this is the show for you!

For children.

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 views expressed in this program are those of the presenter(s) and do not necessarily reflect the official policy, position, or opinions of Hillsborough County, Tampa-Hillsborough County Public Libraries, or the Friends of the Library of Tampa-Hillsborough County, Inc. who do not endorse the presenter(s).

Alice Rocks Wonderland at the SouthShore Regional Library

Monday, March 10 at 2:30 p.m.
SouthShore Regional Library, 15816 Beth Shields Way in Ruskin
FREE

Atlantic Coast Theatre for Youth pumps up the volume in this "Rock Musical" version of Alice's Adventures in Wonderland. With a blend of original lyrics and music combined with Lewis Carroll's poetry, come and experience this familiar story in an exciting theatrical style.

For children ages 5 to 12.

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.

The views expressed in this program are those of the presenter(s) and do not necessarily reflect the official policy, position, or opinions of Hillsborough County, Tampa-Hillsborough County Public Libraries, or the Friends of the Library of Tampa-Hillsborough County, Inc. who do not endorse the presenter(s).

DIY Digital Zines at the New Tampa Regional Library

Sunday, March 9 at 3:00 p.m.
New Tampa Regional Library, 10001 Cross Creek Blvd. in Tampa FREE

Speak your mind! Zines encourage freedom of expression and provide a way for you to find your voice. Zines are magazines published by you and about what you are interested in. Join us to learn more about zines made by other people, young and old, near and far, and make your own using computer software. Bring a flash drive to take your zine with you.

For teens.

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

Sonny And Perley: Love In Any Language at the New Tampa Regional Library

Sunday, March 9 at 2:00 p.m.
New Tampa Regional Library, 10001 Cross Creek Blvd. in Tampa
FREE

Amore, Amour, Amar…Well-known jazz duo Sonny Daye and Perley Rousseau (vocalist) perform in this concert celebrating love and romance in multiple languages.

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.

The views expressed in this program are those of the presenter(s) and do not necessarily reflect the official policy, position, or opinions of Hillsborough County, Tampa-Hillsborough County Public Libraries, or the Friends of the Library of Tampa-Hillsborough County, Inc. who do not endorse the presenter(s).

Five Million Steps On A Journey Of Hope: Thru-Hiking The Appalachian Trail

• Saturday, March 8 at 3:30 p.m. at the SouthShore Regional Library, 15816 Beth Shields Way in Ruskin
• Sunday, March 9 at 3:00 p.m. at the Jan Kaminis Platt Regional Library, 3910 S. Manhattan Ave. in Tampa
• Monday, March 10 at 7:00 p.m. at the Bloomingdale Regional Public Library, 1906 Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico
• Wednesday, March 12 at 6:30 p.m. at the New Tampa Regional Library, 10001 Cross Creek Blvd. in Tampa

FREE

Bob (Buckeye Flash) Grau recounts his 2,181-mile adventure from Georgia to Maine. During his life-changing journey of 170 days, he hiked the last 380 miles with a broken ankle. Hear his unusual story and see photos of his 14 state trek.
For adults.

Funded by the Friends of the SouthShore Regional Library, the Friends of the Bloomingdale Regional Library, and 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 views expressed in this program are those of the presenter(s) and do not necessarily reflect the official policy, position, or opinions of Hillsborough County, Tampa-Hillsborough County Public Libraries, or the Friends of the Library of Tampa-Hillsborough County, Inc. who do not endorse the presenter(s).

Naturalization Information Session at the SouthShore Regional Library

Saturday, March 8 at 10:15 a.m.
SouthShore Regional Library, 15816 Beth Shields Way in Ruskin
FREE

Presented by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, this informative program will provide information outlining the requirements for naturalization and the basic application process. A “mock” naturalization interview, video and a question and answer period will also be included.

For adults.

Presented in partnership with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. For more information about this and other FREE programs @ your library®, call 813-273-3652 or visit www.hcplc.org.

The views expressed in this program are those of the presenter(s) and do not necessarily reflect the official policy, position, or opinions of Hillsborough County, Tampa-Hillsborough County Public Libraries, or the Friends of the Library of Tampa-Hillsborough County, Inc. who do not endorse the presenter(s).

Luncheon Honoring Women's Role in the History of Public Libraries

The Tampa-Hillsborough County Public Libraries' 2014 Centennial Celebration theme is Changing Lives, Transforming Communities, and in honor of Women's History Month, the library system will host a celebratory luncheon on Saturday, March 15, from 11:30 a.m. - 2 p.m. at Maestro's Restaurant in the Straz Center for the Performing Arts, 1010 N. W.C. MacInnes Place in downtown Tampa. The event is one of several to take place in 2014 in honor of the Tampa-Hillsborough County Public Library System's 100th anniversary and costs $19.14 per person. The luncheon, focusing on the influential role women have played in the history and development of our libraries, will feature Connie May Fowler and Doris Weatherford.

Fowler, a local Florida native, is an award-winning novelist, memoirist, and screenwriter. She recently published her latest bestseller, How Clarissa Burden Learned to Fly. Weatherford, local historian and author of Real Women of Tampa and Hillsborough County: From Prehistory to the Millennium was awarded the American Library Association “2013 Outstanding Reference Source” for her latest title, Women and American Politics: History and Milestones. Both speakers will be available after the program for a book signing.

The library will also be presenting its inaugural Helen Virginia Stelle Award, an annual lifetime achievement award that will recognize local women who have played major roles in library advocacy.

Reservations are required and must be received by March 10. To make reservations, contact the Friends of the Library at 813-273-3616 or via email at thplcentennialevents@gmail.com. Parking is available at the Poe Garage, located at N. Ashley Drive between W. Cass Street and W. Gasparilla Plaza for a fee. The Poe Garage is connected to the Straz Center by a covered pedestrian bridge.