Programs by the Friends of the Miami-Dade Public Library
The Great Big Free Book Fair
This series of events encouraging children's love of literacy takes place across Dade County in libraries. Presented by the MDPL System and Books & Books, the Friends hosts an author to read his or her book aloud to a captivated audience of hundreds of children. At our ## events in 2025-2026, Friends reached ## kids and distributed ## brand new books for kids to take home. Save the date: our next event will be at the Overtown Culmer Library on November 7, at 10am (I assume no RSVP and link will only be online on MDPL site a month or so out?).
Member-Exclusive Events
By joining for as little as $25, our members have access to a variety of benefits to suit every library lover's tastes. Since launching this program in the Summer of 2025, we have held quarterly social events, including exclusive meet-and-greets before authors speak to a broad audience, hearing photography advice from a national geographic photographer, online author events with NYT bestselling authors, and an exclusive tour of the library's extensive art collection. Click here to get notified about our upcoming events and join as a member (link to join email list).
Book Club Fair
This event is held annually and free to the public. In addition to a premium lineup of authors and speaking panels, the Friends welcomed ## literary vendors and food trucks. Our 2025 event drew a crowd of ## book and book club lovers! Save the date: it will be combined with the Library’s Local Author event on January 23, 2027 at the Main Library (101 West Flagler).
Click here for more information about the lineup and events that day (link when we have it).
Volunteer Events
We host monthly book sorting at library branches, and regular distribution events at community festivals and nonprofit events. Throughout the year, volunteers may also help set up Friends events or fundraisers. These events are suitable for volunteers ages # and up. Please sign up here (points link) to track opportunities for volunteers. To have Friends distribute books at your next event, please submit a request here (link to form).