850-522-2100

850-233-5055

850-871-3092

Port St. Joe

850-229-8879

Wewahitchka

850-639-2419

Bristol

850-643-2247

Hosford

850-379-3300

by Lia Louis

On a snowy evening in March, thirty-something Noelle Butterby is on her way back from an event at her old college when disaster strikes. With a blizzard closing off roads, she finds herself stranded, alone in her car, without food, drink, or a working charger for her phone.

All seems lost until Sam Attwood, a handsome stranger also trapped in a nearby car, knocks on her window and offers assistance. What follows is eight perfect hours together, until morning arrives and the roads finally clear. The two strangers part, positive they'll never see each other again but fate, it seems, has a different plan.

by Will Smith

Will Smith’s transformation from a West Philadelphia kid to one of the biggest rap stars of his era, and then one of the biggest movie stars in Hollywood history, is an epic tale, but only half the story. Will Smith thought that he had won at life: not only was his own success unparalleled, his whole family was at the center of the entertainment world. Only they didn't see it that way: they felt more like star performers in his circus, a seven-days-a-week job they hadn't signed up for. It turned out Will Smith's education wasn't nearly over. This memoir is the product of a profound journey of self-knowledge, a reckoning with all that your will can get you and all that it can leave behind.

by Janet Evanovich

When Stephanie Plum is woken up in the middle of the night by the sound of footsteps, she wishes she didn't keep her gun in the cookie jar in her kitchen. The intruder is fellow apprehension agent Diesel, six feet of hard muscle and bad attitude who she hasn't seen in more than two years. Turns out Diesel and Stephanie are on the trail of the same fugitive: Oswald Wednesday, an international computer hacker as brilliant as he is ruthless. Stephanie may not be the most tech savvy sleuth, but she more than makes up for that with her determination, her understanding of human nature, and willingness to do just about anything to bring a fugitive to justice. Unsure if Diesel is her partner or her competition, she'll need to watch her back every step of the way as she sets the stage to draw Wednesday out from behind his computer and into the real world.

by Philipp Dettmer

Although everyone who has ever had a cold is familiar with the human immune system and its importance, few understand just how complex and intricate the immune system is. There is a constant battle raging just under our skin, full of stories of invasion, strategy, defeat, and noble self-sacrifice. In fact, in the time you've been reading this, your immune system has identified and eradicated multiple cancer cells that started to grow in your body. Touching on our body's defenses, the types of adversaries we face (including a chapter on the coronavirus), and the grave consequences of immune malfunction, Immune is a vital crash course in what is arguably, and increasingly, the most important system in the body

by John Grisham

As an investigator for the Florida Board on Judicial Conduct, Lacy Stoltz sees plenty of corruption among the men and women elected to the bench. In The Whistler, she took on a crime syndicate that was paying millions to a crooked judge. Now, in The Judge's List, the crimes are even worse. The man hiding behind the black robe is not taking bribes-but he may be taking lives.

by David Grohl

The legendary American musician, singer, songwriter and documentary filmmaker offers a collection of stories, written by his own hand, that focus on the memories of his life, from his childhood to today.

by Stanley Tucci

Stanley Tucci grew up in an Italian American family that spent every night around the kitchen table. He shared the magic of those meals with us in The Tucci Cookbook and The Tucci Table, and now he takes us beyond the savory recipes and into the compelling stories behind them.​ Each morsel of this gastronomic journey through good times and bad, five-star meals and burned dishes, is as heartfelt and delicious as the last.

by Katie Couric

In this memoir, the iconic media star discusses her professional and personal life, including losing her husband at a young age, her historic turn as anchor of the CBS Evening News, and experiences dealing with gender inequality.

by Elif Shafak

Two teenagers, a Greek Cypriot and a Turkish Cypriot, meet at a taverna on the island they both call home. A fig tree stretches through a cavity in the roof, and this tree bears witness as Kostas and Defne grow in their forbidden love for each other. The tree is there when war breaks out, when the capital is reduced to ashes and rubble, and when the teenagers vanish. Decades later, Kostas returns as a botanist looking for native species, and the search for his lost love. Years later a Ficus carica grows in the back garden of a house in London where Ada Kazantzakis lives. This tree is her only connection to her family's troubled history and her complex identity as she seeks to untangle years of secrets to find her place in the world.

by Robin George Andrews

An exhilarating, time-traveling journey to the solar system's strangest and most awe-inspiring volcanoes. Volcanoes are capable of acts of pyrotechnical prowess verging on magic: they spout black magma more fluid than water, create shimmering cities of glass at the bottom of the ocean and frozen lakes of lava on the moon, and can even tip entire planets over. Despite their reputation for destruction, volcanoes are inseparable from the creation of our planet. Science journalist and volcanologist Robin George Andrews describes the stunning ways in which volcanoes can sculpt the sea, land, and sky, and even influence the machinery that makes or breaks the existence of life.

by Nicholas Sparks

As a teen, Maggie Dawes was sent away to live with an aunt she barely knew in Ocracoke, a remote village on North Carolina's Outer Banks. She could think only of the friends and family she left behind until she met the handsome and genuine Bryce Trickett, one of the few teenagers on the island. Bryce showed her how much there was to love about the wind-swept beach town and introduced her to photography, a passion that would define her life. By 2019, Maggie is a renowned travel photographer and owns a successful New York gallery. But this year she is unexpectedly grounded over Christmas, struggling to come to terms with a sobering medical diagnosis. Increasingly dependent on a young assistant, she finds herself becoming close to him. As they count down the last days of the season together, she shares with him the story of another Christmas, decades earlier and the love that set her on a course she never could have imagined.

For the most up-to-date information on Northwest Regional Library System location hours and services, visit the NWRLS Library Website.

Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, we continue to encourage all patrons to wear a mask and maintain social distancing at 6 feet while inside the library. Please do not enter the library if you are sick! All children under the age of twelve must be accompanied by an adult. Computer time is limited to one log on per person for 2-hours per day.

Thursday, December 23rd through Saturday, December 25th for Christmas Holiday. Locations will close at 5 p.m. on December 22nd.

Friday, December 31st and Saturday, January 1st for New Years.

NASA's newest telescope, the James Webb Space Telescope, is its largest yet and will see deeper and more clearly into space than has ever been possible before. Unlike the Hubble Space Telescope, which observes primarily at visible and ultraviolet wavelengths, the Webb Telescope will work primarily in the infrared. This will give it an unprecedented window into conditions in distant galaxies, star formation, and exoplanet atmospheres. Subject matter expert, Dr. Derek Buzasi, will discuss the mission itself, its history, instruments and science goals, and what the telescope will do for exoplanet research. Program geared for all ages. Registration required. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.

Register in advance for this webinar:

Dr. Derek Buzasi Bio:

Since 2012, Dr. Derek Buzasi has been the Whitaker Eminent Scholar in Science at Florida Gulf Coast University. His research interests include almost anything having to do with stars, including the exoplanets that circle many of them!

The NWRLS Mobile Library will be at the H. G. Harder's Park "Christmas at Harder's Park" event organized by the Bay County Parks and Recreation Department. The Mobile Library will provide a Winter Storywalk.

Additional "Christmas at Harder's Park" Event Details:

Santa and Mrs. Claus will make a special appearance - arriving via helicopter. The event will feature pictures with Santa, a candy cane hunt with prizes, a Letters to Santa station and free hot chocolate. Parents are encouraged to bring cameras for pictures with Santa.

Programs will be released through library Facebook pages on the specific date/time. Pre-recorded videos can be viewed earlier on the Northwest Regional Library System FL YouTube channel.

Monday, December 6th at 2 p.m. CT / 3 p.m. ET

Just in time for the holidays, turn junk mail into jewelry with an African Paper Bead tutorial. Take and Make Kits will be available while supplies last at the Bay County Public Library Youth Services department starting on December 6th.

Thursday, December 9th at 10 a.m. CT / 11 a.m. ET

Bear Stays Up for Christmas by Karma Wilson, read with permission from Simon & Schuster.

Thursday, December 16th at 2 p.m. CT/ 3 p.m. ET

Excavate like an archeologist and take on the Chocolate Chip Cookie Challenge in this Virtual STE(A)M Program for all ages.

Wednesday, December 1st at 2 p.m. CT / 3 p.m. ET

Christmas is coming! Learn how to fold a 5-pointed star from a 5-sided sheet of paper and a folded wreath ornament made with 8 paper squares. These can make great ornaments for your tree or to decorate a gift package!

Design your own ugly holiday sweater using the print out available in Youth Services. The ugliest sweater will receive a prize. Contest winner will be announced on December 30th.

Tuesday, December 7th at 4 p.m. CT

Want to have a say at your library? Want to earn volunteer hours? Want to make crafts, play games, and eat snacks? Join the Teen Advisory Board! Registration is required. Please stop by or call Youth Services at 850-522-2118.

Starting on Wednesday, December 8th

Make a watercolor snowflake using markers and a coffee filter! Take and make craft kits will be available in Youth Services while supplies last. The tutorial video will be available on our YouTube channel.

Monday, December 13th at 4 p.m. CT

Teens will learn about each other’s winter holiday traditions, make a craft, and receive take home snacks! In person. Registration is required. To register call Youth Services at 850-522-2118. Masks are encouraged.

Starting on Wednesday, December 22nd

Make a Christmas bell out of a paper cup! Craft kits will be available in Youth Services while supplies last. The tutorial video will be available on our YouTube channel.

Help us find the Elf on the Shelf in our Children's Section and you will receive a small candy cane!

Throughout the month of December stop in for our latest Take and Make Craft Kit. Kits will be available while supplies last. There will be a limited number, so stop by and pick one up to enjoy! We thank the Panama City Beach Library Foundation for sponsoring this program.

December's STEAM Challenge for school age children is to make a Spinning Toy available while supplies last! Sponsored by the Friends of the Gulf County Libraries.

Weekly Make and Take Craft activities for kids available in the children's area. Sponsored by the Friends of the Gulf County Libraries.

Stop in for our weekly Take and Make Craft Kits and our monthly STEAM Challenge Kits. Kits available while supplies last. Sponsored by the Friends of the Gulf County Public Libraries.

Help us find the Elf on the Shelf in our Children's Section and you will receive a small candy cane!

Come in anytime during the month to pick up a gingerbread man and then decorate like your favorite book character. One winner will be chosen on December 30th to receive a Gift Bundle prize!

Friday, December 17th at 2:00 p.m. CT

A Christmas themed storytime will be held outside of the library near the gazebo. Santa will visit from the North Pole! A take home craft will be provided by the Friends of the Gulf County Public Libraries.

Craft Kits will be available each month while supplies last for kids.

Craft Kits will be available each month while supplies last for kids.

Holiday Unstacked episode with Sarah from the Bay County Public Library and Stephen from the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library. Join us as we explore literary news, holiday books and films, and what we are currently reading/watching. Christmas horror and wassailing pagan ghost horses included. We will be taking a brief podcast break until January 2022 providing the perfect time to catch up on older episodes and give all the 5-star reviews!

And as always read my friend. It's good for you.

Wednesday, December 1st from 10:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. ET

Walk-ins are welcome! Receive legal assistance in Title Clearing, Family Law, Probate, Victim Rights, Contractor Disputes, Insurance Coverage Disputes, Denial of Repair Assistance, and more! Assistance is provided on a first-come, first-served basis and is based on lawyer availability. Please bring documentation & paperwork related to your legal question. The Legal Services of North Florida require a Covid-19 Screening Questionnaire and masks to attend the Free Disaster Legal Help clinic.

Programs will be released through library Facebook pages on the specific date/time. Zoom programs require registration. Pre-recorded videos can be viewed earlier on the Northwest Regional Library System FL YouTube channel.

Wednesday, December 1st at 10:30 a.m. CT / 11:30 a.m. ET

Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman

Email jmcduffie@nwrls.com for Zoom invitation.

Tuesday, December 7th at 2 p.m. CT / 3 p.m. ET

Learn how to sort text, add a signature, and more about features like Read Aloud and AutoRecover by watching our Word 2019 video!

Thursday, December 9th at 11:30 a.m. CT / 12:30 p.m. ET

To the Bright Edge of the World by Eowyn Ivey

Email rfillingame@nwrls.com for Zoom invitation.

Tuesday, December 28th at 2:00 p.m. CT / 3:00 p.m. ET

Learn how to make your very own tiny book for a necklace!

Tuesday, December 14th at 5:30 p.m.

Bestselling author, Michael Lister, will present his newest titles! Books will be available for purchase and signing. Social distancing and masks are encouraged.

Fridays from 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. CT

Bring your yarn and let's knit! Masks are encouraged. Program is limited in size to 7 total to allow for social distancing. First come, first served.

Saturdays from 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. ET

Bring whatever project you are working on and enjoy a relaxed social gathering in our Florida room with others who share your love for knitting, felting, crochet and other needle arts. Masks are recommended. Seating is limited. First come, first served.

Monday, December 13th at 10:30 a.m. ET

The Friends of the Gulf County Public Libraries is a 501(c)3 organization founded to support libraries in Gulf County by providing financial assistance for programs that support lifelong learning and enhance the cultural life of the community. Masks are recommended and limited seating. First come, first served.

Monday, December 20th at 10:30 a.m. ET

A Child's Christmas in Wales by Dylan Thomas

Coffee and breakfast sweets provided! Masks are encouraged. Seating is limited. First come, first served.

Help us to decorate our Christmas Tree in the library. Create a book page ornament. All supplies will be available on a designated table throughout the month.

Friday, December 3rd from 1:00 - 4:00 p.m. CT

Create a button Christmas tree along with a holiday coaster. Pre-registration required. Visit or call the library at 850-639-2419 to reserve your space.

Monday, December 6th at 1 p.m. CT

Pre-registration required. Limited to 8 individuals. Visit or call the library at 850-639-2419 to reserve your spot and find out the book of the month.

Tuesday, December 14th at 2:00 p.m. ET

December's book is Swamp Santa by Jana DeLeon. Masks recommended.

Group limited to 8 attendees. First come, first served or pre-register.

Tuesday, December 14th at 2:30 p.m. ET

Each month we will explore different nutrition topics, all while having fun! Presented by the Liberty County UF/IFAS Family Nutrition Program. Masks recommended. Group limited to 8 attendees. First come, first served or pre-register.

Thursday, December 16th at 10:00 a.m. ET

Learn how to make loopy yarn wreaths. Masks recommended. Group limited to 8 attendees. First come, first served or pre-register.

Packets contain coloring pages, word searches and more!

Wednesday, December 15th at 1:30 p.m. ET

Each month we will explore different nutrition topics, all while having fun! Presented by the Liberty County UF/IFAS Family Nutrition Program. Masks recommended. Group limited to 6 attendees. First come, first served or pre-register at the library or call (850) 643-2247.

Packets contain coloring pages, word searches and more!

by Madeline Hunter, Sabrina Jeffries, and Mary Jo Putney

The reigning queens of Regency Romance return with another delightful Christmas collection of three sparkling holiday romances, as stranded travelers find merriment, mistletoe, and holiday romance awaiting at a quaint country inn. Stories are An Unexpected Christmas Gift by Madeline Hunter, When We Finally Kiss Good-Night by Sabrina Jeffries, and When Strangers Meet by Mary Jo Putney.

by Stephen Kurczy

Deep in the Appalachian Mountains lies the last truly quiet town in America. Green Bank, West Virginia, is home to the Green Bank Observatory. Astronomers search the depths of the universe using the latest technology, while schoolchildren go without WiFi or iPads. With a ban on all devices emanating radio frequencies that might interfere with the observatory's telescopes, residents live a life free from constant digital connectivity. But a community that on the surface seems idyllic is a place of contradictions.

by Sharon M. Draper

Melody, the huge-hearted heroine of Out of My Mind, is a year older, and a year braver. And now with her Medi-talker, she feels nothing's out of her reach, not even summer camp. There have to be camps for differently-abled kids like her, and she's going to sleuth one out. A place where she can trek through a forest, fly on a zip line, and even ride on a horse! A place where maybe she really can finally make a real friend, make her own decisions, and even do things on her own!

With the Libby by Overdrive app, you can check out five e-books and audiobooks for free for 21 days. All you need is your library card number and PIN. Forgot your PIN? Just give us a call at 850-522-2100 and we'll set one up for you. And you can return items early!

To access e-books and downloadable audiobooks, click here or:

Go to www.nwrls.com

Click on Books & Research

Click on eBooks & eAudiobooks

Click on OverDrive and Libby to find eBooks, audiobooks and magazines

Download the Libby App to your device.

Sign in by selecting Panhandle Library Access Network.

Select Northwest Regional Library System as your library,

and login with library card number and PIN.