Jefferson County R.J. Bailar Public Library - Florida

05/14/2026

Meet our new Children’s Librarian, Bri Rodriguez. After earning her Master of Science in Information from Florida State University, Bri is excited to begin her first full‑time role supporting young readers. She is passionate about early literacy, creative programming, and building strong connections with families in our community. She also enjoys crafting engaging graphic materials that highlight upcoming library programs and activities.

Bri is continuing her post-master's studies in library and information science to further develop her skills in librarianship. You may even spot her little Corgi companion, Sybil, who loves a cozy reading nook as much as Bri does.

Outside of the library, Bri enjoys reading, writing, photography, gaming, live music, art, and running her own small business, a remote dog bakery and boutique. She also loves spending time with her family, including her two fur babies, Sybil and Hex.

05/01/2026

Our May programming calendar is here! 🌸

Stop by the library to pick up a physical copy and see all the fun events happening this month. We hope to see you soon!

04/20/2026

Join us in celebrating National Library Week while uplifting local businesses in our first annual Monticello Book Trail!

How it works:

From April 21st – April 28th, visit the Jefferson County Public Library to retrieve your stamp card. Stop by each participating business (within their operating hours) to get your card stamped then return it to the library for prizes and a chance to win our grand raffle basket!

Each stamp = one raffle entry, so the more places you visit, the better your chances to win! No purchase is required to participate, but we encourage you to shop local and support these wonderful businesses while you’re out exploring.

Participating Businesses:

• Groove Nutrition
• CowHaus Coffee Company
• Tupelo’s Bakery
• The Social Monticello 2.0
• On Point Boutique
• The Luckie Pearl
• The Luckenbooth Shop
• Monticello Jefferson County Chamber of Commerce
• Monticello Opera House
• Taylor Massage
• Monticello Soap Company
• A Green Keeper
• Johnston’s Meat Market
• Jackie’s Brickhouse Eatery
• Monticello Plant Boutique
• Wolf Creek Pet Adoption Center
• Porch on the Green
• It’s Personal.
• ECB Publishing

A huge THANK YOU to our local partners for teaming up with the Jefferson County Public Library for this event, and for making Monticello such a vibrant, welcoming town. Go explore, collect stamps, and enjoy everything our community has to offer!

04/15/2026

Stop by the library today, April 15th, for a quick and easy health check!

The DSR Public Health Foundation will be offering FREE health screenings from 10 AM – 1 PM every third Wednesday. Services include A1C testing for diabetes/pre-diabetes, blood pressure checks, BMI, and general wellness screenings. They also provide health education and referrals to appropriate care providers.

No appointment needed and no insurance required.

04/02/2026

Interested in a career with public libraries?

The Jefferson County Public Library is seeking a Children’s Librarian to help inspire a love of reading, creativity, and lifelong learning in our youth.

If you’re passionate about working with kids, creating engaging programs, and making a difference, we’d love to see you apply!

To see the job listing and get more information, please visit our website at

The library is accepting applications for a full-time Children's Librarian.

04/01/2026

Our very first library newsletter has arrived! 🎉

Check out everything we have planned for April here: https://app.smore.com/n/f957c

Want to stay in the loop? Scroll to the very bottom of the newsletter and click the “Subscribe” button to get it sent straight to you each month! You can also call or stop by the library and we’ll be happy to add you to the list.

Turning the Page into Spring!

03/31/2026

Spring is in full bloom at the library, and so is our April calendar!

We’ve got something for everyone this month, from toddler storytimes and crafts to teen hangouts, games, and more. Be sure to check out our full calendar of events and join us for the fun! For crafting events call or stop in to register your spot as supplies are limited.

Additional exciting news: Our very first monthly newsletter launches tomorrow! Keep an eye out for the post where you can find in-depth information on programs, library updates, and new additions to our collections.

03/20/2026

Stop by the Jefferson County Public Library today, March 20th, for a fun afternoon of boardgames and donuts!

We’ll have a massive assortment of board and card games ready to play, from competitive to casual, and fresh donuts available at 3pm (while supplies last).

Bring a friend to come hang out, play some games, and enjoy a treat! Open to all ages.

03/18/2026

Yesterday’s Smash Bros. tournament was an absolute blast. If you missed it, don’t worry! Stop by today, March 18th, anytime for Free Play Hours to jump on the Switch and join the fun. Other games will be available for play: Mario Party Superstars, Overcooked, and Gang Beasts are all great for 2-4 players so bring a friend! And be sure to come back Thursday for our Mario Kart competition, even if you're new to the game there's fun to be had.

Pizza for youth will be available at 3pm (while supplies last), so come hang out, play, and grab a slice!

03/14/2026

Looking for something to do during Spring Break? Join us at the Jefferson County Public Library for a week full of games, movies, and community fun!

Each day kicks off with a family-friendly movie at 1:00 PM, complete with free snacks, followed by gaming events in the afternoon. All programs are free and open to the public.

Tuesday, March 17
🎬 Family-Friendly Movie – 1:00 PM (snacks provided)
👾 Smash Bros Tournament – Youth at 4:00 PM; Adults at 5:30 PM

Wednesday, March 18
🎬 Family-Friendly Movie – 1:00 PM (snacks provided)
🎮 Nintendo Switch Free Play – Drop in anytime and play multiplayer games. (Free pizza for youth available starting at 3pm, until gone!)

Thursday, March 19
🎬 Family-Friendly Movie – 1:00 PM (snacks provided)
🏁 Mario Kart Tournament – Youth at 4:00 PM; Adults at 5:30 PM

Friday, March 20
🎬 Family-Friendly Movie – 1:00 PM (snacks provided)
♟️ Board Game Café– Bring your own board games or play one from the library’s collection.

02/13/2026

February is American Heart Month! The Florida Department of Health in Jefferson County will be offering free cholesterol, blood pressure, and glucose screenings on Monday, February 23, from 1:00–4:00 p.m. at 1255 W. Washington St., Monticello, FL 32344. Community resources will also be available. For more information, contact Jessica Long at 850-427-4006.

They're also hosting a breast cancer awareness screening event on Tuesday, February 17, from 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. at the same location. This event is for those aged 40–64. Space is limited, so appointments are encouraged. To schedule, call 850-342-0170 or visit Jefferson.FloridaHealth.gov.

Flyers with this information are available for pick up at the Jefferson County Public Library, share the word!