April is a busy month at JGRLS! Check out of all the events and happenings at your local library.
Library to offer free eclipse glasses beginning March 18
Pascagoula, MS _ The Jackson-George Regional Library is excited to announce that they will be giving away free eclipse glasses ahead of the near-total solar eclipse on Monday, April 8, 2024.
Starting from Monday, March 18, the library system will offer free eclipse glasses at all 8 library branches while supplies last. Each person is limited to two glasses. If you want to ensure the availability of glasses, it is recommended that you call your local library in advance.
The eclipse is expected to begin around 12:30 pm, reach its peak a little after 1:50 pm, and end at 3:10 pm or a few minutes later. The library system emphasizes the importance of providing safe glasses for viewing this celestial phenomenon.
Mississippi residents should take advantage of this opportunity and visit the library to collect glasses while supplies last. The event is visible from Mississippi, and it is important to note that safe glasses are essential for viewing this celestial phenomenon. For more information, please visit jgrls.org.
For more information contact:
Laura Thompson, Singing River Genealogy Manager – 228-769-3060
Singing River Genealogy Library Hosts the Stone Smith Collection
Moss Point, MS – Singing River Library is excited to announce the arrival of the Stone Smith Collection in our archives. The collection is a valuable addition to our library’s resources and will be available for public viewing starting April 2, 2024.
The Stone Smith Collection is a compilation of historical documents that provide insight into Moss Point’s history in the 1920s. The documents include photographs, letters, and newspaper articles that chronicle the development of Moss Point during that time.
To celebrate the arrival of the collection, a special program will be held at the Moss Point Library on Tuesday, April 2, 2024. The program will feature the donor of the collection, who will read a historical account of Moss Point in the 1920s. Guests will have the opportunity to view the documents and learn more about the history of Moss Point.
The program will begin at 2:00 pm, preceding the Moss Point City Council Meeting at 6:00 with a formal presentation to the city of Moss Point from the family. We encourage everyone to attend this unique opportunity to learn about our community’s history.
For more information, please contact Singing River Genealogy and Local History Library at 228-769-3078 or visit our website at www.jgrls.org.
EAST CENTRAL PUBLIC LIBRARY
For more information contact:
Lynn Rainey branch manager – 228-588-6263
LEGO Club at Your Library
HURLEY, MS __ Join the LEGO Club at East Central Public Library! Bring a friend and your imagination. Legos provided. Ages 8 & up. Occurs on the 1st and 3rd Monday of each month from 4-5 pm.
Spring Break Movie: The Library that Dolly Built
HURLEY, MS __ East Central Public Library is hosting a Spring Break Movie Break on Tuesday, April 2nd at 4pm. The movie being shown is “The Library that Dolly Built”, a feature-length documentary about Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, a global book gifting program. The documentary explores the history, impact, and future of the program with guest narrator, actress, and author Danica McKellar and the music of Dolly Parton. This event is a celebration of the woman who made reading exciting and accessible for many families. The movie screening is free and open to the public. Refreshments will be provided by the Friends of the East Central Public Library.
Sweet Science Workshop
HURLE, MS __ Join us for a Sweet Science workshop at the East Central Public Library on Monday, April 1st and Wednesday, April 3rd at 4 pm. This workshop is designed for ages 8 and up, but younger siblings may attend with help from a guardian. During these two fun afternoons, Ms. Leah will lead us in hands-on experiments that explore the way candy fizzes, pops, and melts. We will investigate questions like, “Do marshmallows shatter?” and “Does movement make the sugar dissolve faster?” All supplies will be provided, so just bring yourself and a friend to find the answers to these questions and more.
Rainy Day Relaxation
HURLEY, MS __ The East Central Public Library is hosting a Rainy-Day Relaxation event on Saturday, April 13, 2024. Even if it rains, you can enjoy a warm and cozy atmosphere while adult coloring and sipping on tea or coffee. This is a come-and-go event, and refreshments will be provided by the Friends of the East Central Public Library. So, join us for a relaxing time on April 13th!
National Haiku Poetry Day
HURLEY, MS __East Central Public Library is hosting a National Haiku Poetry Day on April 16th at 4 PM. You are invited to join us and celebrate this day by sharing your own haiku or listening to others. The event is designed for you to come and share your skill with the pattern of five, seven, and five syllables. Please enjoy this event with us!
Damsels and Dragons Royal Tea Party
HURLEY, MS __Join Queen Leah for a Royal Tea Party at the East Central Public Library Kingdom on April 20th at 10am. The party is open to all Damsels and Dragons, or Princesses and Knights in Pre-K through Fifth Grade. We will have fun party games, crafts, and delicious food. Don’t miss this exciting event!
KATHLEEN MCILWAIN PUBLIC LIBRARY OF GAUTIER
For more information contact:
Melinda “Ann” Rushing, Branch Manager – 228-497-4531
Virtual S.T.E.A.M. Day for Elementary
GAUTIER, MS __ The Gautier Public Library is inviting all elementary-aged children to join them for a fun and educational day of S.T.E.A.M. experiments on Thursday, April 4th at 4pm. S.T.E.A.M. stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics. The event will be virtual and live streamed on Facebook. You can find the live stream link at https://www.facebook.com/GautierPublicLibraryL.
These experiments are designed to make learning fun and engaging, and they will be held on the first Thursday of every month. To participate, you can pick up your kit at the Library Service Desk. Scan the code to watch the live stream and enjoy learning with S.T.E.A.M.!
A Solar Eclipse: “Where’s Dat Sun?”
GAUTIER, MS __ Join us at the Gautier Public Library on Monday, April 8th at 1 pm for an interesting discussion on eclipses. We will explore the history, meaning, and science behind this phenomenon. Eclipse glasses will be provided during the program for everyone to watch the solar eclipse together. This program is open to all ages, and light refreshments will be served. We look forward to seeing you there.
Crime Will Tell: Sam Little’s Case Episode #22
GAUTIER, MS __ Join the Crime Will Tell true crime club at the Gautier Public Library on Thursday, April 11 at 5 pm. In the upcoming meeting, we will discuss Sam Little’s case in the 22nd episode. The club will delve into a notorious criminal case and use various resources to analyze it.
The club meets on the second Thursday of each month. You can find a copy of the resource list on the Gautier Public Library Facebook Page, at the library, by scanning the provided QR Code, or by requesting it via email.
Please note that this program is for adults aged 18 and older.
Women’s Empowerment with the Gautier Drum Circle
GAUTIER, MS __ Join us for Women’s Empowerment with the Gautier Drum Circle at the Gautier Public Library on Saturday, April 20th from 12 pm-1 pm. The event will be held at Coastal Harmony (4101 Gautier-Vancleave Road, Suite 204). A drum circle is a group of people who come together to share rhythm and connect with each other through the beat of the drum. It is a great way to promote equality and inclusivity, as there is no head or tail in the circle, and people of all ages are welcome to participate. This event is open to those ages 18 and older.
Monthly Meeting of the Friends of the Gautier Library
GAUTIER, MS __ Join us on Tuesday, April 23 at 9:30 AM for the monthly meeting of the Friends of the Library at the Gautier Public Library. This meeting is open to all members and non-members interested in supporting the library. We will discuss fundraising, marketing strategies, and provide feedback and suggestions on programs and events. If you are not a member yet, you can become one for just $5 for an individual or $10 for a family. We hope to see you there!
Join the Uke Crew! Ukulele for Teens & Tweens
GAUTIER, MS __ Join the Uke Crew at Gautier Public Library for an exciting session to learn how to play the ukulele. The program is scheduled on Saturday, April 27th from 2 pm-3 pm and is open to students in grades 6th to 12th. Ms. Katlin, a board-certified music therapist, will be teaching the session. By the end of the program, you will be able to play at least three chords and a song.
LUCEDALE-GEORGE COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY
For more information contact:
Cynthia Morgan, Branch Manager (601) 947-2123
Cook the Book
LUCEDALE, MS __ Are you a fan of cooking and book clubs? Why not combine the two? Join us at the Lucedale-George County Public Library for Cook the Book on Monday, April 15, 2024, at 4:00 p.m. During this event, we will discuss cookbooks while everyone prepares and tastes the dishes. It’s easy and fun! Simply look for a recipe in the cookbook available at our front desk, cook it up, and bring the dish on Monday, April 15, 2024, for a potluck where we’ll taste all the recipes. This program is open to anyone aged 18 and up.
Let’s Feed the Birds!
LUCEDALE, MS __ Join us at the Lucedale-George County Public Library for a fun and educational program called “Let’s Feed the Birds!” On Monday, April 18th at 4pm, children aged 5-10 are invited to come and make their own pinecone birdfeeders. The Friends of the Lucedale-George County Public Library will provide all the necessary supplies and refreshments for the participants. To reserve your place, please call 601-947-2123. We look forward to seeing you there!
Earth Day Seed Bombs
LUCEDALE, MS __ Join the Lucedale-George County Public Library for an Earth Day Seed Bomb youth program on April 25@4p.m. This event is open to ages 10-17, who are encouraged to come and make their very own plantable seed bombs. All necessary supplies will be provided. Refreshments will be served by the Friends of the Lucedale Public Library. To reserve your place, please call 601-947-2123.
Coffee with a Cop: Officer Michael Guilday
LUCEDALE, MS __ Join us for “Coffee with a Cop” at the Lucedale-George County Public Library on Monday, April 29th at 4:00 PM. Officer Michael Guilday will be present to answer any questions you may have regarding being an officer. This is a great opportunity to meet one of the men and women who keep the town safe every day. If you have any questions, please reach out to us at (601) 974-2123.
Tech Days 101 with CSpire
LUCEDALE, MS __ Join us at the Lucedale-George County Public Library on Tuesday, April 23, 2024, from 3:30 pm to 5 pm for Tech Days 101. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by technology or need assistance with your device, don’t worry! You can bring your tablets, cell phones, or Mac computers to the library and our team will be there to help you out. Sarah from C-Spire will also be available to diagnose phone damages and programs. This event is presented by C-Spire Vernon Holiday, Jordan Boulton, Sarah Byrd, and the library’s Manager. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to call (601) 947-2123.
What’s All the Buzz About Bees?
LUCEDALE, MS __ Join Ann Howard from the Mississippi State Extension Office-George County at the Lucedale-George County Public Library to learn all about the Mississippi Honeybee! This program is open to anyone but aimed at children between the ages of 5 and 11. The event will take place on Saturday, April 20th at 10 am. Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity to discover what all the buzz is about!
INA THOMPSON MOSS POINT PUBLIC LIBRARY
For more information contact:
Liz Murphy, branch manager – 228-588-6263
Music Themed Storytime
MOSS POINT, MS __ Join us for a music-themed story time on April 2nd at 10 AM at the Moss Point Library!
Teen Paper Flower Workshop
MOSS POINT, MS __ Join us at the Moss Point Library on April 3rd from 4:00-5:00 pm to make 3-D paper flowers for Spring. This workshop is open to teens.
Spring-themed Storytime
MOSS POINT, MS __ Join us for Spring-themed story time and crafts at Ina Thompson Moss Point Library on April 9th at 10am!
Emoji Storytime
MOSS POINT, MS __ Join us on April 16th at the Moss Point Library for an Emotions and Feelings Story Time!
Family Gardening
MOSS POINT, MS __ Ina Thompson Moss Point Library will be hosting a Family Gardening Presentation on April 17th from 4-5pm. Join us to learn how to start your own garden!
D.I.Y. Dried Flower Bookmarks
MOSS POINT, MS __ Ina Thompson Moss Point Library is hosting a D.I.Y event where you can create your very own dried flower bookmarks, the perfect activity for the spring. The event will take place on Thursday, April 18th, from 4-6 pm. Supplies will be provided for adults 18 and older, and spaces are limited. Please call 228-475-7462 or come by the library to reserve your spot today.
A Paint and Sip Event
MOSS POINT, MS __ Come to the Ina Thompson Moss Point Library on Tuesday, April 23, at 5 PM to participate in a Paint and Sip event. You will have the opportunity to capture the essence of spring by creating an abstract floral painting with the guidance of Tina. The Friends of the Ina Thompson Moss Point Library will provide all necessary painting supplies and light refreshments. As space is limited, please RSVP at 228-475-7462.
Frog Themed Storytime
MOSS POINT, MS __ Join us for a fun Frog Themed Story Time at the Moss Point Library on April 23rd at 10am for preschoolers!
Gardening 101 with MSU Extension Jackson County
MOSS POINT, MS __ Ina Thompson Moss Point Library is hosting a Gardening 101 event on Tuesday, April 30, 2024 from 4:30 PM to 6:00 PM. The event will be led by Shelby Hudson, MSU Extension Jackson County Agent. Seats are limited, please call to reserve your spot today!
PASCAGOULA PUBLIC LIBRARY
For more information contact:
George Broadus, interim branch manager (228) 769-3060
Tuesday Teatime
PASCAGOULA, MS __ The Pascagoula Public Library cordially invites you to join us every Tuesday for a delightful teatime. We offer two different teas each week for you to try and discuss. Additionally, patrons are welcome to select a tea from our tea library and enjoy it at their leisure. We encourage you to bring your favorite teacup or mug to enhance your tea-drinking experience. Teatime is from 12:00pm to 2:00pm. We hope to see you there!
Storytime with Ms. Sara
PASCAGOULA, MS __ Pascagoula Public Library invites you to join us for our weekly Storytime with Ms. Sara. The event takes place every Wednesday at 10 am and is sponsored by the Friends of the Library. This is a fun and educational event for children from preschool through kindergarten. We will have music, stories, and more to keep your kids entertained and engaged. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to spend quality time with your young ones, while also fostering their love for reading and learning.
ST. MARTIN PUBLIC LIBRARY
Homeschool Book Club
ST. MARTIN, MS __ The St. Martin Public Library is hosting a Homeschool Book Club on April 10th and 24th at 2 p.m. The club is open to all homeschool students and will be reading The One and Only Ivan by Kate Applegate during the month of April. Please note that registration is required as space and copies of the book are limited. Children who are 10 years old and under must be accompanied by an adult. For more information, please call 228-392-3250.
Discovering the Titanic
ST. MARTIN, MS __ Join us at the St. Martin Public Library on April 11th at 5:00 P.M. to commemorate the 112th anniversary of Titanic’s maiden voyage. This is a family program, but it’s best suited for older audiences. During the event, we will discuss interesting facts about the Titanic and learn what it was like to sail on it. In addition to that, light hors d’oeuvres will be served, courtesy of the Friends of St. Martin Library. Please note that registration is required for this program, so kindly call us at 228-392-3250 to register.
Beginner Crochet
ST. MARTIN, MS __ Join us at the St. Martin Public Library on Saturday, April 13th from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM for an introductory class on crochet. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced crocheter, you are welcome to attend. However, as space is limited, please call 228-392-3250 to sign up for the class. Kindly note that this program is only intended for individuals aged 18 and above.
Storytime with an Officer
ST. MARTIN, MS __ Join us for special police officer-themed Storytime at St. Martin Public Library featuring local law enforcement on Thursday, April 18th at 10 a.m. Children aged 10 and below must be accompanied by an adult. During the event, Sheriff Ledbetter, a Jackson County Police Officer, will be reading stories to the children. Don’t miss out on this fun and educational experience!
Crochet for Youth
ST. MARTIN, MS __ Join us at the St. Martin Public Library on April 18th and May 16th at 3:30 pm for a fun and educational crochet class for youth ages 8 and up. You’ll have the opportunity to learn new crochet techniques and practice your skills. In this class, we will be focusing on double crochet. Please note that registration is required for this program. To reserve your spot, simply call us at 228-392-3250. Children who are 10 years old and under must be accompanied by an adult. We look forward to seeing you there!
Lego Club
ST. MARTIN, MS __ Join us for LEGO CLUB at St. Martin Public Library on March 26th and April 23rd at 3:30 p.m. If you love building with LEGOs, this is the program for you! The Children’s Library is the place to be, and children are encouraged to attend. However, children who are 10 years old and under must be accompanied by an adult. To register, call 228-392-3250 today!
Money Matters
ST. MARTIN, MS __ Join us at the St. Martin Public Library for an event called “Money Matters” on April 16th at 4:30 p.m. This event is part of Money Smart Week and is aimed at discussing various money management topics with Lauren Blake, Cadence Bank Branch Manager. In addition, we’ll be playing a life-sized Game of Life! The event is open to youths aged 10 and above. The Friends of the Library will be providing game prizes and refreshments. Will you be the one to win the Game of Life?
Insurance 101 with State Farm
ST. MARTIN, MS __ Join us on April 25th at 5:00 p.m. for an informative insurance program presented by Farah Saksa, a State Farm agent. The event will take place at St. Martin Public Library. During the program, you will learn about a range of insurance options, including home, auto, life, and supplemental health and disability insurance. The event is intended for those ages 18 and up. If you’re interested in attending, please call us at 228-392-3250 to register. We hope to see you there!
VANCLEAVE PUBLILC LIBRARY
For more information contact:
Lauria Barton, Branch manager – 228-826-5857
Baking Club!
VANCLEAVE, MS __ Join the Baking Club at Vancleave Public Library on the first Wednesday of every month at 2:30 PM. Chef Dan Langley will lead the fun afternoon of baking and the library will provide all the supplies. However, due to limited supplies, pre-registration is required. This program is open to patrons aged 17 and above. For more details, please call 228-826-5857.
D.I.Y. Musical Instruments
VANCLEAVE, MS __ Join us at the Vancleave Public Library on Tuesday, April 9th at 4pm for a fun-filled DIY Musical Instruments program. Bring out the artist in you and create your very own musical instruments using everyday items. This program is specially designed for children aged five to twelve. Please note that the supplies are limited, so make sure you sign up at the front desk or call 228-826-5857 for more information. We hope to see you there!
Murder Mystery Messages
VANCLEAVE, MS __ Vancleave Public Library will host an event for homeschoolers of all ages where they can test their spy skills by creating a variety of secret messages. The event will take place on Wednesday, April 3rd at 1:00 PM. For more information, please call 228-826-5857.
From Gems to Jewelry
VANCLEAVE, MS __ The Vancleave Public Library is hosting an event titled “From Gems to Jewelry” on Tuesday, April 23rd. The event will feature a presentation by Mr. Robert Boyd, a local stonecutter, and Mrs. Connie Boyd, a jeweler. They will be discussing gemstones and what can be made using them. Anyone interested in learning about this subject is welcome to attend. For more information, you can contact the library at 228-826-5857.
Sophie’s Universe Crochet-Along
VANCLEAVE, MS __ Join the Sophie’s Universe Crochet-Along at Vancleave Public Library, starting from Wednesday, May 1st at 10 am. This crochet-along program is based on a book written by Dedri Strydom Uyss, which became popular due to her virtual crochet-along. Our crochet group will spend 18 weeks working on our blankets, one section each week. You can bring your own yarn from your stash and swap with others who may have the color you need for the next round. It’s a great opportunity to learn the mandala technique with others and bust your stash at the same time. Contact the library for more information at 228-826-5857.
Vancleave Chess Club
VANCLEAVE, MS __ Join us for the first meeting of the Vancleave chess club on Wednesday, April 24th at 2 PM at Vancleave Public Library. Invite your friends and learn to play! For more information, call the library at 228-334-1296.
Vancleave Food Truck Friday
VANCLEAVE, MS __ Vancleave Public Library invites you to join them on the fourth Friday of the month for a variety of food trucks from 11 am to 7 pm, starting from April 26th. For more information, please call 228-334-1296. This event is sponsored by the Friends of the Vancleave Library.