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What's New at Boca Raton Public Library
Love Your Library in February!
 
Boca Raton Public Library loves to provide as many wonderful things for our public as possible, and we have many things to love. Relax with bestsellers and enjoy cookbooks, travel, history, art and more. Curl up at home with current movies, art films, documentaries, and TV shows on hoopla or Kanopy. Embrace your creativity with our sustainability and crafting programs, or check out a karaoke machine, musical instruments, cake pan, Nintendo Switch, and more!
 
For our Digital Library friends, we now have Gale’s GetSetUp which has live and on-demand classes for older adults to learn new skills, boost digital literacy, and build social connections through topics like tech, health, finance, and lifestyle.
 
We also have a new Comics Plus digital streaming service subscription that provides unlimited access to thousands of digital comics, graphic novels, and manga.  Your Library opens the door to many experiences.  Meet a like-minded friend at one of our language, history, travel, or Thursday Night Speaker programs.  Discover ways to connect with genealogy, podcasting, and iPhone or iPads tips and tricks. Stay connected with New York Times, Wall Street Journal, MyHeritage, and hundreds of free online magazines. Bring your children to story times, to learn on the AWE Learning Stations, and to meet new friends. The Library welcomes you to discover, connect and create!
Joyce Pernicone
Public Services Librarian
February Event Spotlight 
2026 Mayors' Chess Challenge (all ages)
Saturday, February 28, 10:00am - 1:00pm
Downtown Library
Join the Library for the annual Mayors’ Chess Challenge! Instructors will be on hand to help those new to the game. Bring the whole family for an exciting morning of chess and community engagement. Read more...
 
Seat reservation not required; drop-ins welcome.

Jigsaw Puzzle Tournament (all ages)
Saturday, February 28, 2:00-3:30pm
Downtown Library
Calling all Jigsaw Puzzle enthusiasts! Join us for our first Puzzle Tournament of 2026, held in partnership with the Florida Jigsaw Puzzle Association.
 
The tournament will consist of 25 pairs racing to finish the same 300-piece puzzle, so bring a friend, a family member, or anyone else you’d like to puzzle with. 
 
Sponsored by the Friends of the Library.
 
Seat reservation required for each pair of participants.  Drop-in spectators welcome.
Reserve a seat
Events for Adults 
Sunday Music Matinee: Jimmy Stowe Trio
Sunday, February 1, 3:00-4:00pm
Downtown Library
When it’s time to party in paradise, Jimmy Stowe and the Stowaways hit the dock to rock your boat with an engaging style and a musical bounty of smooth Classic Pop and Trop-Rock tunes. With lead singer Jimmy Stowe at the helm, this dynamic South Florida based party band performs all the “Songs You Know by Heart” and so much more.
 
Sponsored by the Friends of the Library with additional support from Arthur and Ellen Wagner. 
 
Seat reservation not required; drop-ins welcome.

Draft to Screen
Thursday, February 5, 6:00-7:45pm
Spanish River Library
Draft to Screen is a community-led group for filmmakers, writers, animators, musicians, and artists who want to connect, grow, and find resources to finish their creative work. This group, which meets monthly, is completely free to join and open to all experience levels.
 
Led by Nabil Sealy alongside co-founder Wilandy Castelin, monthly group meetings will feature time for connection and networking, project pitching and a review of the accountability board for those working on projects, and workshops from industry professionals and accomplished creatives.

Seat reservation not required; drop-ins welcome. 

Connie Regan-Blake - A Story Central Performance:
A Legend in Overalls
Saturday, February 7, 3:00-4:30pm
Downtown Library
Connie Regan-Blake shares stories of a national treasure, the late great traditional Appalachian storyteller Ray Hicks. Bearing old-world gifts, Hicks enriched modern lives beyond measure and became not only the face of mountain storytelling, but also Connie’s mentor and “family of the heart.”
 
Reservations not required; drop-ins welcome.

Sunday Chess Tournament Play (all ages)
Sunday, February 8, 9:00am-4:15pm
Downtown Library
Ready to take the challenge and play a more formal competitive tournament game? Ages kindergarten to adult are welcome to join the Scholastic Chess Open in partnership with 954 Chess. Bring your awesome chess skills and meet your next challenger. Children 8 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Chess sets will be provided but please bring chess clock if you have one.
 
Before registering, see the detailed informational flyer.
 
Pre-pay and pre-register at chessregister.com. 

Monday Movies - Documentary: John Lewis: Good Trouble directed by Dawn Porter 
Monday, February 9, 5:30-8:00pm
Downtown Library
Using interviews and rare archival footage, this documentary chronicles Lewis's 60-plus years of social activism and legislative action on civil rights, voting rights, gun control, health care reform, and immigration. Using modern-day interviews with Lewis, (1940 - 2020) it explores his childhood experiences, his inspiring family, and his meeting with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in 1957. 
 
Seat reservation not required; drop-ins welcome.

Story Central Storytelling Slam
Sunday, February 15, 3:00-4:30pm
Downtown Library
It's a community storytelling concert. It's a friendly competition. It's a chance to make new connections and renew old ones. Join us for the delightful cafe atmosphere, coffee and tea, and 5-7-minute true first-person stories (not read or memorized) from the audience. Maximum storytellers: 10. 

Reservations for storytelling preferred but not required. For more information email Caren Neile at cneile@fau.edu. 
 
Drop-ins welcome to listen in on shared stories.

Acoustic Musicians
Monday, February 16, 5:30-7:30pm
Spanish River Library
Bring your own instrument and come join in a monthly musical jam session at the Spanish River Library. Space is limited. Must be 18 years or older.
 
Seat reservation required.
Reserve a seat

The Women of Michelangelo
Thursday Night Speaker Series
Thursday, February 19, 6:00-7:30pm
Downtown Library
Join Dr. Emily Fenichel from Florida Atlantic University for a fascinating look at Michelangelo’s portrayals of women, an aspect of his art that is often overlooked. Through close visual analysis, she will illuminate what these figures tell us about the artist’s imagination and world.
 
The Thursday Night Speaker Series is sponsored by the Friends of the Library.
 
Reserve a seat to receive a reminder but all drop-ins welcome.
Reserve a seat

Florida Author Series: Steph Post
Saturday, February 21, 2:00-3:30pm
Downtown Library
Steph Post is the Florida Book Award 2024 Gold Winner for the Adult Popular Fiction book title, Terra Incognita. Join her for an engaging discussion of her book.  
 
Sponsored by the Laine K. Rudd fund.
 
Reserve a seat to receive a reminder but all drop-ins welcome.
 
Reserve a seat

Monday Movies - Feature Film: One Night in Miami
directed by Regina King
Monday, February 23, 5:30-8:00pm
Downtown Library
Adapted by Kemp Powers from his acclaimed play, the feature directorial debut of Academy Award–winning actor Regina King puts viewers in a room with four icons at the forefront of Black American culture as they carouse, clash, bare their souls, and grapple with their places within the sweeping change of the civil rights movement. 
 
Seat reservation not required; drop-ins welcome.

Travelogue: Echoes of Scotland’s Timeless Beauty
Friday, February 27, 2:00-3:30pm
Spanish River Library
Discover the magic of Scotland in this immersive travelogue. From the rugged beauty of the Highlands to the charming streets of Edinburgh, our presenter will take you on a journey through Scotland’s most iconic landscapes, historic castles, and hidden gems. Whether you're planning a trip or just dreaming of adventure, this session is your gateway to Scotland’s unforgettable charm.
 
Seat reservation required.
Reserve a seat

Poets on the Fringe (POTF)
Tuesdays in February, 3:30-5:45pm
Spanish River Library
Poets from all walks of life, both established and emerging, are encouraged to share their work and offer positive feedback and support to each other. This weekly series is hosted by Pamela Passaretta, who coordinated this program for 10 years in Washington, DC. Open to ages 18 and up.
 
Seat reservation not required but seating is limited.

Socrates Cafè
Mondays, Spanish River Library, 1:00-3:00pm
Tuesdays, Downtown Library, 1:30-3:00pm
At Socrates Cafe, people from different backgrounds get together and exchange thoughtful ideas and experiences. Gatherings are free and open to any member of the public who wishes to freely discuss a question, which is chosen by vote.
 
Seat reservation not required; drop-ins welcome. 
What's New in the Digital Library
Introducing Beanstack
If you take part in the Library's Summer Reading and/or 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten program, please be advised we are moving to a new tracking software - Beanstack. All data currently stored in ReadSquared can be transferred to Beanstack. Find the free Beanstack app in Google Play and the Apple store. Beanstack can also be used to track progress in our 2026 Read Up Challenge! For help logging in or transferring your data, please call our Youth Services desk at 561-393-7968 or 561-544-8584.
Instructional Classes for Adults
How to Use a Heat Press: Create Your Own Mug
Wednesday, February 18, 1:00-3:00pm
Downtown Library
Turn an ordinary mug into your new favorite sidekick. In this hands-on class, you’ll learn the art of sublimation to create a bold, personalized mug that’s as unique as your daily coffee fix.
 
Library card required for seat reservation. 
Reserve a seat

Outdoor Crochet - Floral Pattern Coaster
Thursday, February 19, 10:00am-12:00pm
Downtown Library
Join us for a hands-on crochet class where you’ll create a floral-pattern coaster inspired by spring blooms. Relax in the fresh air while stitching something beautiful and functional. Beginners and experienced crocheters are welcome. This class will be held on the Downtown Library's South Patio.
 
Library card required for seat reservation. 
Reserve a seat

Outdoor Macramé: Flower Keychain
Thursday, February 26, 10:00am-12:00pm
Downtown Library
In this hands-on macramé class, you’ll design a floral-inspired keychain that captures the feel of the season. Enjoy crafting outdoors in the fresh air while making a stylish and practical accessory. All skill levels are encouraged to join us on the Downtown Library's South Patio.
 
Library card required for seat reservation. 
Reserve a seat

ESOL Foundations: English for Beginners
Wednesdays in February, 6:00-7:30pm
Spanish River Library
Practice beginning skills for reading, writing, listening and speaking English in various situations. The 8-class course will use vibrant slideshows, activities, worksheets and guided instruction to help students with emerging English.
 
Sponsored by the Friends of the Library.
 
Seat reservation required.
 
Reserve a seat

US Citizenship Test Preparation
Tuesdays, 6:15-7:45pm
Spanish River Library
Do you need help preparing for the Citizenship and Interview Test? This class series offers a range of resources and services for those preparing to become a United States citizen and repeats monthly. 
 
Classes are designed to help prepare adult immigrants to successfully complete the naturalization process. This includes developing civic knowledge, learning about N-400, practice on 100 questions and the naturalization interview one-on-one preparation.
 
Sponsored by the Friends of the Library.
 
Seat reservation required.
Reserve a seat

ESOL Conversation Corner
Tuesdays, 11:30am-1:00pm
Downtown Library
Come practice your conversational English skills over a cup of coffee or tea. We will improve our speaking and reading skills through a variety of everyday conversation topics and fun activities. We meet every Tuesday morning. Recommended for participants with advanced-beginner to intermediate speaking ability.
 
Seat reservation not required; drop-ins welcome. 

iPhone/iPad Workshop
Thursdays, 1:30-3:00pm
Downtown Library
Bring your iPhone, iPad, or both. An Apple-trained instructor will answer your questions in a group discussion setting that’s lots of fun for all.
 
Seat reservation required.
Chose your date(s):
 
February 5              February 26
 
February 12                

Our Instructional Services team is offering many classes for adults this month. Click on the links below or visit the library calendar to reserve a seat. Seat reservations are required for all programs.
Book Talks for Adults
Book Talks - An Hour to Kill: Midnight and Blue by Ian Rankin
Tuesday, February 3, 2:00-3:00pm
Downtown Library
In jail, legendary detective John Rebus investigates a murder within the prison walls, risking his life to uncover the truth among inmates and guards alike.
 
Seat reservation not required; drop-ins welcome.
 
Reserve a copy of the book here.
 

Book Talks - Non-Fiction/Biographies:
Toni At Random: The Iconic Writer's Legendary
Editorship by Dana A. Williams
Tuesday, February 17, 2:00-3:00pm
Downtown Library
An insightful exploration that unveils the lesser-known dimensions of this legendary writer and her legacy, revealing the cultural icon's profound impact as a visionary editor who helped define an important period in American publishing and literature. This comprehensive study discusses Morrison's remarkable journey from her early days at Random House to her emergence as one of its most important editors
 
Seat reservation not required; drop-ins welcome.
 
Reserve a copy of the book here.

Friends Book Club: Playground: A Novel
by Richard Powers
Thursday, February 26, 7:00-8:00pm
Virtual Program
The tiny atoll of French Polynesia has been chosen for humanity's next adventure: a plan to send floating, autonomous cities out onto the open sea, but first, the island's residents must vote to greenlight the project or turn the seasteaders away.
 
Open to all. No pre-registration required.
 
Join virtual program with our dedicated Zoom link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/6188745394
 
Log in from 6:30pm on. Discussion begins at 7:00pm. 

Presented by the Friends of the Library.
 
Reserve a copy of the book here.
What's New for Children
New StoryWalk Book: Lola Plants a Garden (all ages)
February, March & April
Serenoa Glade Preserve at George Snow Park
Lola plants a flower garden with her parent's help, and watches it grow
 
StoryWalk is a fun, educational activity that places a children’s storybook along a popular walking route in the community. Different books are displayed throughout the year to keep the StoryWalk experience fresh and promote future learning.
 
Sponsored by the Friends of the Library.

My First Book Club (ages 6-7)
Thursdays in February, 4:30-5:00pm
Spanish River Library
Join our fun-filled First Book Club adventure! Kids read a beginner reader book before attending, then come together to dive deeper into the story through creative, hands-on activities that bring the book to life. Books are distributed one week ahead of time to prepare for class. Child attends independently.
 
Books funded by the Friends of the Library.
 
Seat reservation required for each class. 
 
   

Rookie Rooks: Introduction to Chess for Youth (ages 8-12)
Sunday, February 8, 10:30-11:30am
Downtown Library
Ready to learn how to improve your chess skills and your brain power? Make your move and join in this monthly chess class.
 
Seat reservation required for each individual class.
Reserve a seat

Special Guest Storytime with a Dump Truck Driver (ages 0-5)
Monday, February 9, 10:00-10:30am at Downtown Library
Monday, February 23, 10:00-10:30am at Spanish River Library
This fun-filled half-hour will be packed with songs, fingerplays, and stories read by library staff and a special guest reader, a dump truck driver from our city's Utility Services Dept. Following storytime, everyone will go outside to take a look at a real dump truck and take photos.
 
Seat reservation required.
Reserve a seat - Downtown
Reserve a seat - Spanish River

A Mo Willems Storytime (ages 0-7)
Sunday, February 15, 11:00am-12:00pm
Downtown Library
Love Elephant and Piggie? The Pigeon? Knuffle Bunny? Join us for a special storytime celebration with some of Mo Willems' most beloved characters followed by fun, hands-on, activities. 
 
Seat reservation required.
Reserve a seat

Artist's Story with Timothy Leistner (ages 4-8)
Monday, February 16, 3:30-4:30pm
Downtown Library
Meet a real local artist! Join us at the library for a creative afternoon with artist Timothy Leistner. Hear about his artistic journey, enjoy a special storytime, and get hands-on with a fun art project inspired by his work.
 
Timothy Leistner has the distinction of being named “Best Visual Artist” by New Times Magazine, Broward and Palm Beach; awarded the “Teaching Artist of the Year” award, Broward County; The Joseph Leavitt Award for Commitment to the Arts; and “Artist of the Year for Community Impact”; among others. 
 
Seat reservation required.
Reserve a seat

Farmer Jay’s Junior Sprouts (ages 6-8)
Tuesdays, February 3 - March 17, 5:30-6:30pm
Spanish River Library
Get ready to grow something! Join the Jr. Sprouts program which will introduce children to the lost art of sustainable agriculture. Each class is designed to inspire children while participating in fun hands-on activities. Children who attend and complete all eight core classes will receive certification and become Certified Junior Farmers! Child attends independently.
 
A seat reservation is required for each individual class.
 
Sponsored by the Friends of the Library.
Reserve a seat

Tooth Fairy Storytime (ages 0-7)
Saturday, February 28, 10:00-10:30am
Spanish River Library
Join us to celebrate National Tooth Fairy Day with a fun story, music, and activities.
 
Seat reservation required.
Reserve a seat
Save the Date
Touch A Truck (all ages)
Saturday, March 21, 9:00am-12:00pm
Spanish River Library
Round up the whole family to see and learn about our City's fascinating trucks and vehicles! City truck operators will be on hand to demonstrate how their vehicles work and explain what they do. Attractions include police motorcycle demos and a giant sandbox for children. Read more.
What's New for Tweens & Teens
Eco Adventures (ages 9-12)
Tuesdays, February 3, 17, 6:00-7:00pm
Downtown Library
Join us as we explore amazing biomes and discover the creatures that call them home. Be curious, seek answers, and explore with us! Hands-on activities to follow.
 
Seat reservation required.
Reserve a seat

Clothing Corner: Design Your Own T-Shirt (ages 16-18)
Wednesday, February 4, 5:30-7:00pm
Downtown Library
Get creative and design your own custom t-shirt! Learn how to use a heat press to bring your vision to life. Whether it’s your favorite quote, a logo, meme, or original art — you’ll go home with wearable creations made by you. Optional, preferred: provide your design in advance on a thumb drive or via email. We will make our own designs as well. Shirts provided (while supplies last). 
 
Seat reservation required.
Reserve a seat

Tween Graphic Novel Book Talk (ages 9-12)
Sunday, February 8, 1:00-2:00pm
Downtown Library
Love comics and cool stories? Join the tween book talk squad! We'll read awesome graphic novels, talk about our favorite characters, and engage in fun activities.  Once enrolled, pick up a free copy of the book at the Library's Youth Services desk (while supplies last). 
 
This month: Smile, by Raina Telgemeier
 
Books funded by the Friends of the Library.
 
Seat reservation required.
Reserve a seat

Journey to Olympus (ages 9-12)
Tuesdays, February 10, 24, 6:00-7:00pm
Downtown Library
Journey to Olympus, and learn about the various gods, heroes, and monsters of Greek mythology. Learn about a different myth, story, or legend each month, and engage in fun activities.
 
Seat reservation required.
Reserve a seat

Nature Journaling for Tweens and Teens (ages 9-17)
Saturday, February 21, 2:00-3:30pm
Spanish River Library
Celebrate the beauty of Florida this winter by exploring the nature right behind the Spanish River Library. You will learn how to observe, record, draw, and connect to the plants and animals you see through nature journaling. Adult attendance is required for each tween and teen. Seat reservation required.
 
Seat reservation required.
Reserve a seat

Lit Happens: A Teen Book Club - The Ballad of 
Songbirds and Snakes (ages 13-17)
Sunday, February 22, 1:00-2:00pm
Spanish River Library
Join us for awesome books, tasty snacks, and fun activities! Dive into great reads, share your thoughts, and hang out with other teens who love to chat about stories. Once enrolled, pick up a free copy of the book at the Library's Youth Services desk (while supplies last).
 
Books funded by the Friends of the Library.
 
Seat reservation required.
Reserve a seat
More to Enjoy
New Art Exhibit "Lighthouse Keeper - 
The Art Of Timothy Leistner" 
January 20 - February 27
Downtown Library
Mr. Leistner’s work is interdisciplinary and for this exhibit, he focuses primarily on his lighthouse art. He notes that he sees himself as a “Lighthouse Keeper,” though not in a traditional sense.  Leistner believes that these lighthouses are meant to provide a feeling of safety despite current turbulences in the world. He feels  “viewing lighthouses promotes feelings of safety, honor, and hope,” which are all sensations he feels are needed most. Read more.

New Art Exhibit "Earrings and Buttons
and Pins, Oh My!" by Libby
February 2 - March 5 
Spanish River Library
As a former costumer in the California film industry, Ms. Libby was introduced to vintage fabrics and eventually created her own artwork by embellishing frames, boxes, and letters with various fabrics, including vintage and new jewelry.
Library Team Member Spotlight
Gracie Plonisch
Library Page
What I Do: As a Page my main focus is ensuring that everything looks neat and is in the proper spot so patrons and other library employees can easily find books and materials. Even after they are shelved, books can get out of order or start to look messy, so I straighten up the shelves whenever needed. 
 
Why I Love My Job: Most days, a handful of patrons will come up to me while I am out in the stacks and ask me any questions they may have or where they can find a specific book. Instantly knowing where they can find what they're looking for is one of the most rewarding parts of being a Page; since I work so closely with all of our library materials, I have sort of a mental-map of where everything is located. It especially helps that all of the people I work with are some of the kindest, funniest, friendliest people I have ever met - seeing everyone at work always brightens my day.
 
What I’m Reading Now: Funny Story by Emily Henry.
Friends of the Library News
The Friends are grateful to the community for generous book donations.  
Volunteers receive book donations Tuesday through Saturday from 10:00am-3:30pm at the Bookstore located in the lobby of the Downtown Library. Please review the book donation policy at the Friends Bookstore Webpage.

Support Indie Bookstores
You can purchase Friends virtual book club picks online at Bookshop.org. Search for the Friends of the Boca Raton Public Library Bookstore to see their list of book club picks, and select them as the bookstore you would like to support with your purchase.
 

Friends' Bookstore Hours & Location
400 NW 2nd Ave., Boca Raton, FL 33432
Tuesday - Saturday: 10:00am-4:00pm
Sunday -1:00-4:00pm
Monday: Closed
561-544-8596
 

Library Hours & Locations
400 NW 2nd Ave., Boca Raton, FL 33432
1501 NW Spanish River Blvd., Boca Raton, FL 33431
Monday - Thursday: 9:00am-8:00pm
Friday - Sunday: 9:00-5:00pm
561-393-7852

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Boca Raton Public Library
400 NW 2nd Ave, Boca Raton, FL 33431
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