Free cooking classes for kids, teens and adults

The St. Johns County Public Library System is planning its “Community Cooks!” culinary literacy program, made possible by a recently awarded Innovation Project Grant.

This new program allows participants of all ages to experience hands-on food preparation in a fun and health-enhancing way.

Throughout the summer, the program is offering four unique classes at the Southeast and Hastings branch libraries. Each class will cover various topics, including creating easy, affordable and healthy meals, learning new cooking techniques and food safety and discovering ways to snack smarter.

Registration is required as space is limited. Participants may register for one or all of the classes. Classes are offered on the following dates, times, and locations:

• Tasty Affordable Meals for Busy Families: 10 a.m. July 29 at the Hastings Branch Library
• Sauté, Simmer & Steam: 3:30 p.m. July 22 at the Hastings Branch Library
• Added Sugar is not so Sweet: 3:30 p.m. Aug. 5, at the Hastings Branch Library
• Snack Smarter: 6 p.m. July 25 at the Southeast Branch Library, 10 a.m. Aug. 12 at the Hastings Branch Library

“Community Cooks!” is supported with funds provided by the Northeast Florida Library Information Network and was created in partnership with the University of Florida, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences. It utilizes recipes from the American Heart Association.

For more information about this program and other services of the St. Johns County Public Library System, go to sjcpls.org.