Many Stories Connecting One Community

The Library will be under construction for renovations to ceiling fixtures, lighting and a new HVAC with new air ducts throughout the entire library.  The project will also include expansion of the current special collections room to include 1400 square foot of exhibit space in addition to the valuable resources and research area. 

Construction is planned for 12 months beginning sometime in mid-to-late January (check the Library website for up to date information).  During this time the  Lakeland History Room will be closed to walk-in patrons.  Services will still be provided through email and telephone exchange, with limited contact appointments.

QUESTIONS?  Call 863.834.4269 or email LuAnn.Mims@lakelandgov.net

The Generators- Genealogy Club
[Teleconference l Monday, January 4 @ 6 pm]
Registration opens Monday, December 28

The Generators: an ad hoc hands-on workshop that focuses on Family Genealogy. 
This is a monthly discussion meeting centered about a topic of genealogical interest and a chance to connect with others to learn more about genealogy. 
January Topic: Genograms and Genealogy

Focus On:  Family Search

Family Search.org is a FREE genealogy site filled with more than two billions records, materials and family trees.  Learn how to navigate through this website with this teleconference workshop.

The Lakeland History Room Digital Collections contains more than 7000 images.   Each month a different collection will be spotlighted.

Riggins Family Photographs

Norman A. Riggins was one of Lakeland's early settlers along with other members of his family including ,his wife Sally, his parents Mann and Frances Riggins, and an aunt and uncle, Calvin and Margaret Waggoner.  They opened the first dry goods store in the new town in 1885. Riggins also had an interest in a lumber mill, an ice plant, a novelty company, and a large commercial farming enterprise.  Mosswood, the home they built in 1904 still stands near the shores of Lake Morton.

Featured Digital Collection:  Riggins Family Photographs 

The Lakeland Public Library has served the community since its opening in January 1927.  Originally in the Park Trammel Building, the main library is still located on Lake Morton Drive with two branches, Larry R. Jackson Library - on the northside of town and the eLibrary - on the southside to fulfill its goals of ...
Engaging Community. Exploring Knowledge. Enriching Lives.

Flickr Featured Album: Your Lakeland Public Library

CHAIR SIDE CHATS with HISTORIANS
History's Local Bounty Revealed: A Freewheeling Personal Conversation
with Polk's Pre-Eminent Historians
Dr. Canter Brown, Jr and Dr. James "Mike" Denham
Incase you missed this enjoyable evening on November 12
This event was recorded:: Encore presentation

Green Hat and White Gloves Lake Mirror Tour

You are cordially invited to delve into Lakeland’s history with Miss Serena Bailey (the first city librarian 1929-1959). Whilst strolling around the promenade of Lake Mirror you will be regaled with tales touting personable people, premier places and the astounding achievements of our fine city. 
Tours are offered the 2nd Tuesday of the month, space is limited!

Legend, Legacy & Lore Series: Stories of Lakeland
Discover Lakeland's history through video, images, maps and text through Story Map Journals.  At the end of each journal is a chance to test your knowledge with a short trivia quiz.  Submit the form and you can take home a historic button or two.