Fine Arts at the library for your family

Fine Arts Resources at Your Local Public Library

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The A in STEAM stands for “Arts.” The fine arts, encompassing both the plastic arts and the performing arts, are for everyone. Our local public library is a welcoming space that features a wealth of resources, making the exploration and enjoyment of the fine arts accessible to all.

Explore Fine Arts at the Library:

Books

From sheet music to instructional manuals about watercolor painting, our collection is a treasure trove of knowledge about the many fine arts. The variety is bound to excite you, as it caters to all reading levels and ages. Whether you’re a preschooler learning to dance, a teenager exploring monologues for the stage or anyone in between, there’s something for you.

Patel Conservatory dancers perform as baby mice in Next Generation Ballet's production of Nutcracker.

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Media

Artists often like to show, not just tell. Our library’s extensive collection of media about the fine arts empowers you to explore different art forms. From video presentations of drama, dance and music performances to drawing tutorials and documentaries about sculpture, the choice is yours. You can check out art DVDs from any of our branches or download videos from our databases, such as Hoopla and Kanopy.

 

Ukulele Kits

Learning to play an instrument can begin with your library. Did you know the Tampa-Hillsborough County Public Library circulates ukuleles? They can be placed on hold and picked up at our libraries. The library can also supplement your ukulele learning with sheet music, instructional books and DVDs.

A finished creation from a library art project

GoPros

Want to improve your photography but not yet ready to invest in a fancy camera? You can check out GoPro cameras from our library. After placing them on hold, they can be picked up at Bloomingdale, C Blythe Andrews, Jimmie B. Keel and New Tampa libraries. The kits include everything you need to take photographs. The library also features books about using these cameras.

 

Discovery Pass

They have returned! You can check out free passes for local art museums, such as the Tampa Museum of Art and the Florida Museum of Photographic Arts. You can even choose specific dates. We often add new venues that can be visited thanks to the Discovery Pass.

READ MORE: Library Discovery Pass is Your Ticket to FREE Summer Fun at Local Attractions

Programs

Our library system offers programs in the plastic and performing arts year-round. Many of them take place during the summer. Programs feature performances by artists, such as a ballet dance or drum show on stage; and lessons, such as a painting class. Check out our calendar for upcoming program dates and locations.

 

Activities and Crafts to Go

Our libraries often hand out seasonal crafts to take home. All necessary materials and instructions are provided in these kits. You can also find many other fun art activities on our library’s Events and Classes page.

All these resources and programs are provided for free to our customers.

 

Heidi Colom is a librarian at the New Tampa Regional Library. She obtained her master’s degree in library and information science from the University of South Florida, and her specialist degree in library and information studies from Florida State University.

Originally published in the September 2024 issue of Tampa Bay Parenting Magazine.