Library Analysis

Library Analysis

Jacksonville Public Library: Bradham and Brooks Branch

            The Jacksonville Public Library system located in Jacksonville, Florida has 21 branch locations for residents of northeast Florida.  With the exception of Mondays, most branch locations are open weekdays and Saturdays.  Recently I visited the Bradham & Brooks branch located at 1755 Edgewood Avenue.  This branch opened in 1991 and serves residents of Northwest Jacksonville.  Located near are several schools that service many economically disadvantaged youth, so this branch is a great resource for many students.  Bradham & Brooks branch has many resources ideal for residents and students including a full library collection such as books, audiobooks, and DVDs; library cataloging, internet, and wireless internet access; and an adult, teen, and children’s area.  Additionally, programs for all library goers such as adults, teens, and children are available throughout the week.

            The most interesting aspect of the Bradham & Brooks branch is the programs offered to teenagers and children.  Duval County Public Schools is the local school district and due to teacher professional development requirements, schools are dismissed half-day every other Wednesday.  Therefore, this branch offers an early dismissal program for Duval school district students in the surrounding area.  This program provides students with a variety of resources such as homework help and book club discussions.  Additionally, students are offered other resources through programs such as the after-school program where they are able to get homework help, have book club discussions, surf the internet in a designated area, play board games, and make crafts. 

            Bradham & Brooks also offer resources to adult learners and library goers.  Available at this branch is a learn to read program that has a group of volunteers who meet with adults interested in learning to read according to interested person’s schedule.  Due to the sensitivity of  this type of program, sessions are conducted in one of the 5 meeting/group areas “below” the main entrance on the 1^st floor.  Additionally, other sessions and programs such as a the “Tech Petting Zoo” is a class offered in a meeting area where adults can learn about computer basics.   In addition to adult learners, this branch offer several resources for special needs populations such as “talking books” and a braille collection. 

            Overall, this library branch is a friendly, family atmosphere that offers a variety of learning resources for adults, teens, children, and special populations.