All Hands-on Tech

Category:  Children & Youth
Author: Daniel Jones

All Hands-on Tech is a program at the Naranja Branch Library of the Miami-Dade Public Library System (MDPLS). It was launched in February 2023 and provides a pathway for children ages 8-18 to engage in participant-directed, interest-driven, hands-on Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics (STEAM) education.

Art @ the Library: Creative Classes for Seniors

Category:  Libraries
Authors: Jennifer Shipley & Oscar Fuentes

Art at the Library: Creative classes for Seniors is an art education initiative of the Miami-Dade Public Library System (MDPLS) that brings free art classes to older adults ages 55+ to inform and inspire them to create and understand visual art using a variety of mediums. Our desires are to expose seniors to hands-on art workshops facilitated by local professional artists.

The Art Factory: An Arts and Crafts Program for Youth

Category:  Libraries
Authors: Deirdre Lewis-Gustafson

The Art Factory: An Arts and Crafts Program for Children officially began on December 2, 2023. California Club Branch Library’s staff goal was simple. We wanted to expose children to art and social interaction and have the children feel good as part of the community. We aim to give our attendees, when appropriate, a history of the specific art project, instruction, and the supplies to create. 

AV Club

Category:  Libraries
Author: Katherine Labuda

AV (Audio Visual) Club is an ongoing program of curated 16mm short film screenings designed to provoke discussion, generate enthusiasm for learning and research, and create awareness of unique library resources held by the Special Collections Division of the Miami-Dade Public Library System. 

Bingo Night for Kids

Category:  Libraries
Author: Carolina Padron, Patricia Bell, Yasha Collins, Christina Amilcar

This program provides young patrons to have fun, socialize and challenge their cognitive skills. Fun music is played in the background to create a relaxing but enjoyable atmosphere. The trivia questions selected for that month depend on the season, holiday, or pop culture. 

Books and Cooks

Category:  Libraries
Author: Camilo Barrero

Books & Cooks is a partnership between UF/IFAS Extension, the New Worlds Reading Initiative, and the Hispanic Branch of the Miami Dade Public Library System. Books & Cooks is a free literacy and nutrition program that invites parents and children to learn alongside other families in 7 weekly sessions.

The Business Library: Accessible Electronic Business Resources for The Community 

Category:  Libraries
Author: Adriana Blake

The Business Library is to educate and provide free electronic resources to the Miami-Dade community interested in learning about business-related subjects to enhance their personal or professional life. The Business Library is available through the library’s OverDrive/Libby app. The Business Library allows individuals access to a wide range of business-related topics in eBooks, eAudiobooks, and eMagazines format. 

Caribbean Genealogy Series

Category:  Libraries
Author: Isana Skeete

The Caribbean Genealogy Series hosted by the Miami-Dade Public Library’s Special Collections division is a virtual program directed to amateurs and professionals interested in genealogy and exploring heritage and background of families from the British West Indies of both African and Jewish ancestry. 

Cine Club @ the Library: Showcasing Classics and Modern Cinema

Category:  Libraries
Authors:   Omayda Ruiz, Rachel Aleman, Bryant Capley, Teresita Lopez-Diego

The Cine Club @ the Library: Showcasing Classics & Modern Cinema makes moviegoing accessible to the Spanish-speaking population of the Hialeah Gardens community and Miami-Dade County residents. This free program lets Spanish-speaking residents enjoy the true cinematic experience in their native language. 

Clothes Closet

Category:  Libraries
Authors: Sheba Previus, Daymi Roman, Nahema Lundor, Anjali Ferrer, Angela Merriweather, Shana Hinze

The social services team began a clothes closet at Main Library in 2021 after repeated requests from patrons for clothing items. The items are donated by county employees and offered to anyone who asks although geared toward low-income individuals.

Code Club: An Online and Cross-Collaborative Program

Category:  Libraries
Author: Melinda Meyer

The Online Code Club program originated at the Concord Branch in November of 2021, thanks to fervent patron demand for more STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics) programming. Due to COVID-19 restrictions and bolstering community interest in online events, STEAM events continued in this arena. Patrons requested extensions of these events, including coding. Thus, the Online Code Club was born.

Community Internet Connectivity Mobile Device Lending Program

Category:  Libraries
Authors:  Julio Rodriguez & Ralph Costa

The Miami-Dade Public Library System (MDPLS) has, since the introduction of the internet in libraries, been at the forefront of the digital divide by providing access to computers and technology for the Miami-Dade community at its 50 physical library locations and mobile fleet. In part as a response to the COVID-19 pandemic and the closures that ensued, MDPLS realized that there was an opportunity to provide expanded services to the community and launched the Community Internet Connectivity Mobile Device Lending Program in 2021.

Community Memory Project: Building Family Legacy in Miami-Dade County

Category:  Libraries
Author: Margarita Mirabal

The Community Memory Project aims to share and document the history of Miami-Dade County and its residents while fostering a sense of community through a visually engaging product. This project compiles the life stories of residents by actively gathering personal items such as photos, documents, and symbolic objects. 

Digital Signage: Transforming Miami-Dade Libraries with Digital Innovation

Category:  Information Technology
Authors:  Julio Campa & Diana Arguello

Digital Signage is a dynamic fusion of technology and library services, revolutionizing how patrons interact with our libraries. Through the strategic deployment of 60 digital signage displays, we have seamlessly integrated these vibrant screens across our 20 libraries, creating an immersive and informative environment. Our digital signage serves as a virtual concierge, guiding patrons through the library experience.

Drive-Up Wi-Fi at the Library

Category: Information Technology
Author: Julio Campa

In June 2020, the Miami-Dade Public Library System (Library) and the Miami-Dade County Information Technology Department (ITD), collectively, Miami-Dade County (County), launched their Drive-up Wi-Fi Initiative. This endeavor began as a service adaptation born during the COVID-19 pandemic to provide residents without home internet, or those with limited bandwidth, a safe and reliable high-speed option for internet access throughout the pandemic. 

eCards: The Virtual Gateway to Knowledge, Resources, and Community Engagement

Category:  Information Technology
Authors: Julio Campa

In today's digital age, libraries are evolving to meet the changing needs of their patrons. The emergence of e-books and other digital content formats has opened new opportunities for libraries to serve their communities. One such initiative is the eCard program, developed collaboratively by the Miami-Dade Information Technology Department (ITD) and the Miami-Dade Public Library System (MDPLS). The eCard program aims to streamline access to MDPLS resources by providing a convenient online platform for obtaining library cards.

Emoji Journal Workshop

Category:  Children & Youth
Authors:  Jameliya Hall & Joanne Apollon

The tween-inspired Emoji Journal Workshop began on August 8, 2023.  The Emoji Journal Workshop allows program participants to express themselves by assembling individualized emoji journals and encourages them to explore their thoughts and emotions using preselected writing prompts

Empowering Connectivity: E-Rate-Driven Internet Services, Network, and Wi-Fi Enhancements

Category:  Information Technology
Author: Julio Campa

In the heart of Miami-Dade, the Miami-Dade Public Library System (MDPLS) embarked on a transformative journey to meet the escalating demands of digital connectivity. Faced with a surge in bandwidth usage propelled by the high-definition media content and the proliferation of Wi-Fi-enabled devices, MDPLS seized the opportunity to revitalize its internet services and network infrastructure.

Empowering the Community through Financial Literacy  

Category:  Libraries
Author: Nora Morales

The Financial Literacy Workshop Series featured an array of impactful financial literacy classes delivered through an online platform for the community. The library collaborated with the Friends of the Library to coordinate services with pro-bono financial advisors. 

Fables for Kids Book Club

Category:  Libraries
Authors: Alexandra Gutierrez

The monthly program takes place the last Wednesday of each month from 3-4 p.m. and is intended for children ages 6-11.  The program's objective is to help children be better citizens. The program addresses different behaviors using classic storytelling.  The program brings families together as parents and grandparents help children reduce unwanted behaviors.  Books, games, and cards are materials used during each program.

Fall Into Winter Reading Challenge

Category:  Libraries
Authors:   Gina Menge, Arthur Garcia, Monica Martinez, Edda Rodriguez

Miami-Dade Public Library System’s (MDPLS) annual Fall into Winter Challenge was inaugurated in 2022 with the primary objective of encouraging readers of all age groups to extend their reading pursuits. This initiative expands on MDPLS’s existing annual Summer Reading Challenge and aims to inspire participants to surpass their individual reading milestones, honor the invaluable contributions of the patrons who shape the essence of the public library, and seeks to reward participants by offering chances for prizes just for reading or enjoying a library program. 

Family Movie Night @ the Library

Category:  Arts, Culture and Historical Preservation
Author: Tristan Miller

The Family Movie Night program is designed to draw patrons to the library by offering them an enjoyable movie experience while also making them aware of the literacy resources, programs, and services available to them at their local library branch. This initiative aims to promote literacy by showcasing books relevant to the movie's themes, particularly targeting communities where reading is not emphasized. In addition to the movie screening, patrons are treated to complimentary popcorn.

Family Seasonal Portraits at the Library

Category:  Libraries
Authors:   Gloria Cordova, Bryant Capley, John Symons

Family memories should not be a luxury. The Family Seasonal Portraits program is focused on families who cannot afford to pay for professional family photographs. Without competing with professional photographers, library staff give families the chance to build memories at their library year-round.

Friday Afternoon Magic (FAM)

Category:  Libraries
Author: Ramiro Diaz

The FAM: Friday Afternoon Magic for Teens started on October 2023 with the goal of attracting more teens to the world of trading card games and giving them an opportunity to experience them without having to purchase the cards. Due to the program’s low cost, we provide new cards and decks every week with an ever-increasing collection of cards, letting the patrons who attend experience the game and its expanding multiverse at no cost. 

From the Page to the Stage Theatre Workshop

Category:  Libraries
Authors:  Krystal Powell & Jane Meyer

The From the Page to the Stage Theatre Workshop emerged as a response to the pressing community need for accessible space to foster artistic expression, exposure, and growth. Initially, it was created as a platform to introduce literary works in a creative way. It evolved into a multifaceted initiative aimed at nurturing the talents and skills of individuals from diverse backgrounds, age groups, and abilities. 

Fun with Perler Beads

Category:  Libraries
Author: Ana B. Leon

In January 2023, the West Kendall Regional Library's Children's Department began hosting a weekly "Fun with Perler Beads." The program was introduced to provide a fun after-school activity that tweens and their parents would enjoy. The program was positively received and has been a resounding success for the library in engaging the intended demographic at the Children's Department.

Game On! Chess Club for Teens & Tweens  

Category:  Libraries
Author: Rita Mayer

Many libraries host chess programs; this is not unusual. The Miami Springs Branch Library Teen & Tween Chess Club, however, is unique in that it has grassroots origins, and that the public’s response has been overwhelmingly supportive, garnering even the attention of local media. Initiated by a young boy and kept going by library staff and a loyal fan base, the Miami Springs Branch Library Teen & Tween Chess Club is a perfect example of how a neighborhood comes together. 

Get Hooked! Crochet and Knitting Program

Category:  Libraries
Author: Maria (Terri) Blanco

Many positive experiences and successes have come about from the making of a new and exciting program for the community of Doral at the Doral Branch Library. “Get Hooked! Crochet and Knitting Program” was added as a bi-monthly program at the Doral library for adults and seniors to come together to share their common interests, enjoy and learn a new skill, and exchange knowledge with one another. 

The Girl Power Program @ Culmer Branch Library

Category:  Libraries
Author: Ashley Adams

The Girl Power Program, which began in February 2023, addresses a variety of important aspects in the lives of at-risk teenage girls. The comprehensive approach, including work readiness, life skills training, character development, citizenship, health and wellness, and individual and group counseling, reflects a commitment to holistic personal development. 

The Golden Ticket: Be the Next Lucky Reader Program 

Category:  Children & Youth
Authors: Annie Roberson & Ana Barreto

The Golden Ticket program, an initiative at Miami-Dade Public Library System’s Edison Center Branch Library, aims to foster good reading habits amongst juvenile reluctant readers while simultaneously boosting foot traffic and circulation. The program started as a game. Staff randomly placed “golden tickets” inside children’s books. When one of those books is checked out, the patron receives a prize. 

Haitian Creole Conversation & Reading Circle

Category:  Libraries
Authors: Nancy Rocher & Roudelyn Pollas

The Haitian Creole Conversation & Reading Circle was a virtual conversation and reading circle for adults that the Northeast-Dade Aventura Branch Library and the Golden Glades Branch Library jointly hosted from 2021-2022. The Haitian Creole Conversation & Reading Circle was a safe space for participants to practice their Creole conversation and reading skills

Health and Wellness Center Partnership with Baptist Health

Category:  Libraries
Author: Janelle Gonzalez

On April 2, 2022, the Miami-Dade Public Library System (MDPLS) officially opened the Westchester Health and Wellness Center. The Westchester Health and Wellness Information Center is the first custom-built, stand-alone library branch specifically focused on community health. Central to the operations of the branch are partnerships. One of these partnerships which has had a profound impact on the community is with Baptist Health of South Florida. To continue to engage the community and support Baptist Health’s mission around health and wellness, Baptist Health experts offer free weekly virtual classes all year long via Zoom or in-person

History Never Dies: Reflecting on Past Challenges for Future Insights 

Category:  Arts, Culture and Historical Preservation
Author: Ellen Book

Connecting the past to the present offers insights and a broader understanding of our current circumstances. To make local history come alive, Miami-Dade Public Library System (MDPLS) partners with formal and informal organizations to highlight regional historians who chronicle the successes and failures of this place we call home. 

Homeschool Club

Category:  Libraries
Authors:  Fatima Centeno & Cindy Tejeda

The Homeschool Club aims to meet the needs of the homeschool community of the Lakes of the Meadow neighborhood and nearby areas. The program runs the second Thursday of the month from 11 am-12 pm, available at no cost to children between 6 and 11 years old and their parents/caregivers. The program consists of one-hour interactive activities in an open setting of the library. 

Hora de los Cuentos: A Special Storytime for Families Celebrating Hispanic Heritage and Culture

Category:  Libraries
Author: Lourdes Anaya

"Hora de los Cuentos" (Story Hour in Spanish) is a weekly program at the West Kendall Regional Library conducted entirely in Spanish with special attention to Hispanic culture and heritage. The program was created to cater to the large number of patrons from Hispanic countries who have moved into our community in recent years who requested a special program in which they can feel welcome, make friends, and preserve their cultures and heritage for their children. 

Improvements to Libraries @ Your Door

Category:  Libraries
Authors:   Jennifer Shipley, Qiana Robinson, Kimberly Craig

The Miami Dade Public Library System (MDPLS) Libraries @ Your Door Home Delivery Service (L@YD) was first piloted in 2020 during the height of COVID-19 and was recognized as an unexpected success. Originally called “Expanded Home Library Services,” the astounding popularity of having materials shipped to a customer’s home warranted the need for rebranding and an expansion to fifty libraries as distribution points to eliminate the need for inter-office delivery.

International Dark Sky Week

Category:  Libraries
Authors:  Gina Menge & Athy Fitos

To raise awareness about the effects of light pollution and encourage residents to enjoy the night sky, the Miami-Dade Public Library System (MDPLS) hosted its first foray into programming for International Dark Sky Week. Three events took place at different libraries across Miami-Dade County that included a presentation from an astrophysicist, engaging art and science-based activities for children and viewing with telescopes outside on library property assisted by library staff. 

Kiwanis/Library Branch Partnership to Promote Literacy

Category: Children & Youth
Author: Hector Vazquez

In November of 2022, the Sunny Isles Beach Library was approached by a member of the local chapter of the Kiwanis Club about the possibility of collaborating on a program for improving reading skills among school children. The original proposal by Kiwanis for the first collaborative program that began in January 2023 and was successful from the start eventually led to the creation of a second monthly collaborative reading program that began in September 2023 that also engaged and encouraged children to read more biweekly. 

Knitting for Kids

Category:  Libraries
Author: Vanessa Roldan

The "Knitting for Kids" program began in the summer of June 2022, mainly due to a growing interest from our young patrons in wanting to learn the classic art form of needle and yarn crafting. The program targets patrons between the ages of 8-12 years old. Parents are actively encouraged to assist and participate along with their children as the program provides an excellent opportunity for a bonding experience.

Let's Get Down to Business

Category:  Libraries
Authors: David Hildenbrand

Let's Get Down to Business is a dynamic program dedicated to fostering the growth of small businesses countywide while providing essential support for job seekers at the Naranja Branch Library of the Miami-Dade Public Library System. Through a series of workshops, mentorship opportunities and networking events, entrepreneurs gain invaluable insights into business planning, monetary management, and marketing strategies. 

Libraries and Girl Scouts: A Sweet Collaboration 

Category:  Libraries
Authors: Nora Morales & Janelle Gonzalez

The collaboration between the Miami Dade Public Library System (MDPLS) and the Girl Scouts of Tropical Florida (GSTF) was a strategic initiative to engage a new demographic and foster interest in the library among young patrons. With a focus on the 5,700 GSTF members, including adults and nearly 3,000 girls in grades K-12, across Miami-Dade and Monroe counties, the partnership aimed to broaden the library's reach within the community. 

Library and Community Partnership: Bright Paths Afterschool Program

Category:  Libraries
Author: Ruben Gomez

The partnership between Miami-Dade Public Library System’s Bay Harbor Islands Branch and Bright Paths aims to address the post-pandemic decline in academic achievement among students during the 2023-2024 academic year. By leveraging the resources and expertise of both entities, the partnership offers a comprehensive two-pronged approach to support the diverse community served by these public sector agencies.

Library Branch PPE and Disinfecting Supplies: A Proactive Response to COVID-19 Distribution Challenges

Category:  Libraries
Authors: Kimberly Craig & Daniel Ankh

In March 2020, as news of the COVID-19 pandemic unfolded, the Miami-Dade Public Library System foresaw that its existing software program and accompanying procedures for the distribution of stocked items to its large network of library branches across the county would not be sufficient to deal with the constant and unrelenting need for PPE and disinfecting supplies. A program was established using new tools to ensure that no library branch was left without the PPE and disinfecting supplies needed to keep staff and members of the public as safe as possible. 

Library Branch Programming Hosting Kits

Category:  Libraries
Authors:   Gina Menge, Kimberly Craig, Louise Gestwicki

Miami-Dade Public Library System created and deployed branch programming hosting kits to create efficiency in library operations and encourage branch self-sufficiency for special programs, events and outreach. Prior to being deployed, branches had aging and unserviceable sound equipment, mismatched tablecloths and lacked many basic items that would encourage and facilitate more branch-level participation in community events.

Making Impressions: Archives, Printmaking, and Robert Blackburn

Category:  Libraries
Author: Luis Berthin

The "Making Impressions: Archives, Printmaking, and Robert Blackburn" exhibition is a testament to the enduring legacy of Master Printer Robert Blackburn (1920 – 2003) and his influence on printmaking and community engagement. Celebrating both Blackburn's Printmaking Workshop and the Miami-Dade Public Library System's history, the exhibition is a confluence of artworks, archives, and documentation.

Making Strides Against Breast Cancer: A Library-Adopted Initiative

Category:  Planning
Authors:  Fara Jacobson & Christina Monge

The Miami-Dade Public Library System (MDPLS) passionately aligns with the annual American Cancer Society: Making Strides Against Breast Cancer (MSABC) Initiative, a beacon of hope in our community's fight against breast cancer. Committed to raising awareness and advancing crucial research, MDPLS engages patrons and staff alike in a collective mission of support and solidarity. Driven by a deep-seated dedication, MDPLS volunteers form a dynamic committee, orchestrating a series of impactful events designed to encourage staff involvement and amplify the message of the cause.

Miami-Dade Public Library System Sensory Friendly Storytime

Category:  Libraries
Authors:   Brent Capley, Miriam Quiros-Laso, Bryant Capley, Lucille Laso

The Coral Gables Branch Library developed an enhanced Sensory Friendly Storytime which reimagined the traditional sensory Storytime and upgraded it with a special emphasis on puppets, sensory-friendly lighting, a cooldown area for reduction in stimulation and audience participation. The purpose of the program was to provide inclusive biweekly Storytime programming for children and families experiencing neurodivergences including but not limited to Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Autism. 

Microsoft Surface: Library Tech Trailblazer

Category:  Information Technology
Author: Julio Campa

The Microsoft Surface: Library Tech Trailblazer program revolutionizes library services by introducing innovative technology to enhance public access and educational initiatives. By distributing 10 Microsoft Surface Laptops per library for public circulation, the program aims to replace outdated devices and provide patrons with modern computing tools.

Mini Library Reading Corner at Starbucks

Category:  Libraries
Authors: Loraine Duarte

In early 2022, the Sunset Branch Library and its neighboring Starbucks forged a unique local partnership aimed at promoting literacy, fostering a love for reading, and encouraging meaningful social interactions. The initiative sought to combat a post-pandemic increasing reliance on mobile devices by creating inviting spaces where community members could disconnect from screens, connect with others, and enjoy handcrafted beverages. 

Monthly Holiday Crafts

Category:  Libraries
Author: Sannia Massarelli

Monthly Holiday Crafts is an ongoing program developed by the Coconut Grove Branch Library and is a way for children to interact with other children, be creative and set a path of imagination to adulthood. For their parents at these events, it is their chance to reach out to other parents of children in the same age range, to social network in their community. In this manner, children and parents expand their knowledge of who lives in their community and what is available to them.

North Dade Regional Library Resiliency Initiative: The First Solar-Powered Miami-Dade County- Owned Building

Category:  County Resiliency
Authors:  Jeffrey Rosenberg & Lisa D'Andrea-Thompson

On April 5, 2023, Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava unveiled the first-ever large-scale solar installation on a Miami-Dade County -owned building. This first ever rooftop solar photovoltaic array system sits atop Miami-Dade Public Library System's North Dade Regional Library located at 2455 NW 183rd Street in Miami Gardens. The system includes 1,093 solar modules on the existing building’s roof. This Solar Panel Project is currently estimated to produce 85% of the energy needed to power the North Dade Regional Library. 

Not Your Mom's Book Club Program

Category:  Libraries
Author: Javier Corredor

In June 2023, the Kendall Branch Library began a new program titled “Not Your Mom’s Book Club”. This monthly book discussion is aimed at patrons 18 years of age and up. This program discusses more mature themes not regularly discussed in your Young Adult book discussion groups.

Online English Conversation Circle 

Category:  Libraries
Authors: Michael Price & Rachelle Record

The Online English Conversation Circle (OECC) aids non-native speakers by enhancing English-language skills through group practice. The sessions provide participants with the opportunity to develop fluency and confidence in a relaxed environment. The classes cater to individuals at different skill levels and are facilitated by English-speaking staff members.

Promoting Literacy in Day Care Centers through Storytelling Programs

Category:  Libraries
Author: Gabriella Imbimbo

The Country Walk Branch of the Miami-Dade Public Library System identified the need to assist daycares with early literacy instruction. Daycare staff are usually overburdened with numerous tasks and often focus on activities developing a child’s gross and fine motor skills. To support nearby daycare centers and promote literacy, library staff developed thematic bilingual Storytime programs, in Spanish and English, tailored to children ages zero to five. 

Reading Challenge Portal/Dashboard: Encouraging Young Readers

Category:  Information Technology
Authors:  Julio Campa & Monica Martinez

The Reading Challenge Portal/Dashboard (Portal), developed by the Information Technology Department (ITD) for the Miami-Dade Public Library System, is a commendable initiative aimed at fostering children’s love for reading. The Portal serves as an interactive platform where families can engage in literary pursuits and simplifies the process of signing up for reading challenges throughout the year. The portal tracks participants’ reading activities, including length and frequency. 

Sábado Gigante: Día de gozar para familias - Family Fun Day 

Category:  Libraries
Author: Mercedes Munias

This program uses an innovative approach to Children's programming where the emphasis is on hands-on learning to help develop real-world skills. Children, caregivers, and their families have the opportunity to engage in different tasks as they learn and explore in our Children's room while further developing cognitive skills, communication, social-emotional skills, and many other areas of development growth at their own pace.

Say It Loud Talent Show

Category:  Libraries
Author: Priscilla Hill

Talent shows have become a popular form of entertainment in recent years, captivating audiences with their display of diverse skills and talents. Many schools participate in having some sort of talent show or recital in which students can partake. It is a wonderful way to explore one’s unique abilities, boost confidence and engage with peers.

A Shared Vision: Reading Glasses for All

Category:  Libraries
Authors:  Jennifer Shipley & Rita Mayer

A Shared Vision: Reading Glasses for All is an example of how two organizations with a commitment to a similar cause can create a successful partnership to benefit citizens. In partnership with the Lions Club - District 35, the Miami-Dade Public Library System (MDPLS) provided over 3,000 free reading glasses to underserved communities in Miami-Dade County over a one-year period.

Smart Libraries: Innovations in Cameras, Wi-Fi, and Library Analytics

Category:  Libraries
Author: Information Technology

The Smart Libraries initiative aims to revolutionize library management by integrating Meraki smart cameras, access points, and V-APP software into a unified dashboard solution. With diverse libraries across the county, the IT team sought a comprehensive security and networking solution to cater to varying needs. With its ability to seamlessly manage access points, switches, and security cameras, Cisco Meraki provides advanced analytics and network visibility. 

Smartphone Basics for Seniors en dos idiomas

Category:  Libraries
Authors:  Alice Connors-Suarez & Maria Companioni

Miami Dade Public Library System’s (MDPLS) Smartphone Basics for Seniors en dos idiomas program originated In December 2019. The primary purpose of the program was to empower Spanish-speaking seniors with the skills and confidence to use their smartphones for communication, information access, and social engagement. 

Social Work Internship Program

Category:  Libraries
Authors:   Elena Angulo, Sheba Previus, Shana Hinze

The Miami-Dade Public Library System Social Services at the Library, in partnership with the Miami-Dade County Juvenile Services Department (JSD), and Florida International University (FIU), serves as an internship placement for Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) students from FIU. BSW interns complete two semesters at the library while receiving clinical supervision from a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) from JSD. The Social Work Interns are integral to the successful operation of the Social Work Program by maintaining the level of service as they assist with the case load.

South Miami Community Pantry

Category:  Libraries
Authors:   Carmen Docurro, Ricardo Sanda, Jared Berger

The South Miami Community Pantry arose out of a partnership between Girl Scout troop 252 and the Miami-Dade Public Library System. The project was fully implemented in August 2022 at the South Miami Branch Library. This project's purpose was to provide essentials for daily life to those in need at no cost. The pantry provides items in three categories: clothing, toiletries, and food. 

Spanish Conversation Circle

Category:  Libraries
Authors:   Ricardo Martin, Richard Cortina, Susan Lacey, Shana Hinze

The Spanish Conversation Circles are informal learning programs designed to allow participants to practice Spanish language skills in a relaxed, group environment. Participants can practice speaking Spanish while connecting through conversation and shared interests such as culture, family, food, and current events. 

STEMology Club @ South Dade Regional Library

Category:  Libraries
Authors:  Eric Rodriguez & Giselle Alonso

The STEMology Club @ South Dade Regional Library invites children to explore the world of physical science, artificial intelligence, coding, game design, and engineering. The program is a collaboration between the Miami-Dade Public Library System and Sports Konnect Inc., a local nonprofit that provides mentorship to youth using the life skills found in organized sports. 

Take and Make Craft Kit Program @ Palmetto Bay Branch Library

Category:  Libraries
Authors:   Krystle Smith, Crystal Hana, Connie Bush

The Take and Make Craft Kit program is a perfect way to highlight different holidays, events, and themes, bringing awareness in a fun and creative way. Also, the craft program creates an opportunity for Palmetto Bay Branch Library to offer a program to patrons that promotes cultural awareness and literacy. 

Take and Make Craft Kits @ North Shore Branch Library

Category:  Libraries
Author: Chris Bailey

The Take and Make Craft Kits began being offered at the North Shore Branch Library during the COVID-19 pandemic. Due to the positive response from the community, North Shore continues to offer Take and Make Craft Kits. This new program at the branch uses holidays, heritage months, and other important traditions and celebrations by members of the community to maintain relevance and awareness. 

Teen Cubing Club

Category:  Libraries
Author: Jennifer Pina

Invented in 1974 by Erno Rubik and released worldwide in 1980, the Rubik's Cube challenges cognitive skills with logical puzzles. It’s a fun way to delve into combinatorics, a branch of mathematics, and encourages teamwork among fans. The Teen Cubing Club at the West Kendall Regional Library in Miami-Dade enhances this by offering a place for youth to boost creativity, manage time, and improve memory, while also building networks, confidence, and friendships.

TeenTober: Empowering Teens Through Libraries

Category:  Libraries
Authors:   Jon Quinones, Cynthia Saavedra, Ryan Hall-Castle

The Miami-Dade Public Library System (MDPLS) launched its TeenTober campaign to encourage increased participation among teenagers in library activities. TeenTober, a nationwide celebration held every October, was established in 2020 by the Young Adult Library Services Association (YALSA) to celebrate and promote year-round teen services, empowering young adults to acquire new skills and pursue their passions both within and beyond the library's walls. 

Trailblazing Teens: Teen-led Teaching Program to Enrich All Ages

Category:  Libraries
Authors:   Paul Lefrak, Nancy Rocher, Evelyne Zapata

Trailblazing Teens is the heading of a series of ten ongoing programs offered by the Northeast Dade – Aventura Branch Library, part of the Miami-Dade Public Library System (MDPLS), in which teens serve as teachers in various intergenerational ongoing library programs. The goal of the programs is for teens to develop, implement, and lead intergenerational teaching programs for the community. 

Unlocking Data: Miami Dade Library’s Power BI Reports

Category:  Information Technology
Author: Julio Campa

The Miami-Dade Public Library System stands as a beacon of knowledge and community. Recognizing the transformative potential of data, the library embarked on a journey to harness the power of Business Intelligence (BI) reports tailored to its unique needs. The library’s Information Technology Department (ITD) spearheaded the initiative, aiming to provide personalized experiences and resources for each branch while optimizing resource allocation. Leveraging Power BI, custom dashboards and reports were developed to consolidate key metrics crucial for informed decision-making.

Virtual Tutoring Portal/Dashboard 

Category:  Information Technology
Author: Julio Campa

The Miami-Dade Public Library System's Virtual Tutoring Program, developed by the Information Technology Department (ITD), is an innovative solution designed to provide virtual tutoring sessions for students during the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond. By leveraging Azure B2C for authentication and a Blazor Web Assembly portal, the program offers seamless scheduling and management experience for parents and administrators.

Waste Management Recycling Services Confirmation Database

Category:  Information Technology
Authors:   Javier Navarro, Jeanine Bruno, Guillermo Dimas, Julio Campa, Jessica Jarra

Our program, titled "Waste Management Recycling Services Confirmation Database" leverages cutting-edge technology to streamline and automate the confirmation process for Waste Management services within the Miami-Dade County Public Library System (MDPLS). Through the integration of Power BI and Power Automate, the program has significantly improved operational efficiency and accountability. 

Women's History Meet and Greet Program

Category:  Libraries
Authors:  Miriam Kashem & Bryant Capley

The Women’s History Meet and Greet program consists of library staff engaging in historical roleplay to highlight the achievements of both famous and lesser-known female figures from history who hail from a variety of professional fields. Library staff carefully research each figure and respectfully portray them using period-appropriate costumes and props which are supplemented with library materials, such as books, graphic novels and movies.

Zooming into STEM: Miami Lakes Library STEM Partnership with Florida International University 

Category:  Libraries
Authors:   Laura Ruiz, Nancy Matos, Joseph Truglio

The Miami Lakes Branch Library partnered with the Department of Health and Science at Florida International University (FIU) to present immersive activities about science and technology for children. The undergraduate and medical students from Florida International University partner with the Miami-Dade Public Library System (MDPLS) in events on Saturdays in Miami Lakes Branch Library.

Zumba for Everyone

Category:  Health
Authors:  Ethelia Rosemane & Roudelyn Pollas

Established in October 2022, by the Golden Glades Branch Library, "Zumba for Everyone" is an in-person library program wherein participants engage in a full body workout for flexibility, strength, and cardiovascular fitness. Moreover, the program has shown great benefit in releasing stress and mental health.