It’s a new year, and Jackson George Regional Library System has all kinds of new events and activities for the community to enjoy! Check out of all the various happenings at different JGRLS branches this month, there is something for everyone!
Not Far from the Tree
PASCAGOULA, MS __ Join Laura Thompson, the manager of Singing River Genealogy and Local History Library, at the Pascagoula Senior Center on Wednesday, January 17th, from 2:30 pm-3:30 pm for a crash course in genealogy and tracing your ancestors. After the session, a family tree activity will allow participants to start building their family tree. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn more about your family history, and it’s completely free!
For more information contact:
Lynn Rainey, East Central Public Library Branch Manager – 228-588-6263
The Mississippi Pogy Industry
HURLEY, MS __ Join us on January 25th at 4 pm in the East Central Public Library, Mississippi, to hear from a special guest speaker who will discuss the Pogy Industry and its significance to the Mississippi Gulf Coast. Please arrive early as seating may be limited for this event. Light refreshments will be provided by the Friends of the East Central Public Library.
Storytime @ East Central
HURLEY, MS __ Join us this Thursday morning at 10 a.m. at the East Central Public Library located at 21801 Slider Road, next to the schools. We will have songs, activities, and stories for kids aged 2 through preschool age (2-5 years). This event is sponsored by the Friends of the East Central Public Library. For more information, please call the library at 588-6263.
For more information contact:
Melinda “Ann” Rushing, Kathleen McIlwain Public Library of Gautier Branch Manager – 228-497-4531
Meal & A Mystery: Eps 19 – Stockholm Syndrome & Patty Hearst
GAUTIER, MS __ Join the True Crime Club on Thursday, January 11 at 5 pm to discuss Eps 19 – Stockholm Syndrome & Patty Hearst, a well-known true crime case. The club will use a variety of resources to examine the case. You can find a copy of the resource list on the Gautier Friends of the Library Facebook page, in the library, by scanning the QR code, or by requesting it via email. So that you know, this program is only for adults aged 18 and older.
Virtual Page Turners Book Club
GAUTIER, MS __ Join the Gautier Public Library’s Page Turners Book Club, which meets virtually on the 4th Monday of each month. You can find more information about the club by visiting @1pm on Facebook. To join the book club, simply scan the QR code provided and participate through live chat, live video, or by watching and commenting on your own time. Please note that this program is intended for adults. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to discuss our book of the month with fellow book lovers!
Mother Goose Baby Playdate and Storytime!
GAUTIER, MS __ Come join us at the Gautier Public Library for our Mother Goose Baby Playdate and Storytime! This event takes place every 3rd Tuesday at 10:30 am and is perfect for babies and toddlers who want to explore new toys, learn songs, and make new friends. During circle time on our crawl carpet, little ones will have the opportunity to practice hand-eye coordination, language, social play, and motor skills. Older siblings are also welcome to participate. Please note that space is limited, so be sure to register by calling or visiting the library.
Children’s Monthly Virtual S.T.E.A.M. Day
GAUTIER, MS __ The Gautier Public Library hosts a virtual monthly event called S.T.E.A.M., beginning January 4th for elementary-aged children. S.T.E.A.M. stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics – all of which are combined to make learning fun! The event takes place on the first Thursday of every month at 4:00 pm and is now virtual on Facebook due to the current situation. The event provides S.T.E.A.M. experiments that are specially designed for children to learn and enjoy. You can pick up your S.T.E.A.M. kit at the Library Service Desk.
For more information contact:
Cynthia Morgan, Lucedale-George County Library Branch Manager (601) 947-2123
Be Red Cross Ready
LUCEDALE, MS __ Are you ready for the worst-case scenario? Join us on Thursday, January 4, 2023, at 2:00 p.m. to learn how to prepare and respond to disasters such as wildfires, hurricanes, and tornadoes which are most likely to occur in our community. At the end of the program, an interactive Q&A session will take place. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn how to keep yourself and your loved ones safe during an emergency.
Urban Myths: Domestic Violence and Human Trafficking
LUCEDALE, MS __ Join Jessica Henry, the Community Outreach Educator for the Gulf Coast Center for Nonviolence, at the Lucedale-George County Public Library on Thursday, January 11, 2024, at 1:00 p.m. to learn about domestic violence and human trafficking. Jessica will discuss what domestic violence and human trafficking are, who is most vulnerable, and how we can help stop it. The event will cover urban myths and facts, and you can find out whether it could happen to you or someone you know. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain awareness and learn how to help.
Book signing giveaway event with Author, Jessica James Henry “Trauma Breakthrough:10 Strategies to Overcome Trauma to Gain Success”
LUCEDALE, MS __ The Lucedale-George County Public Library is hosting a book signing giveaway event with Jessica James Henry, MPH, on Thursday, January 11. Jessica is a Global Health Ambassador, Non-Violence Advocate, and a 6X International Best-Selling Author. She will be talking about her bestselling book Trauma Breakthrough and sharing 10 strategies to overcome trauma and achieve success. Her book focuses on self-help for abuse and Christian spiritual growth. The event will take place in the main part of the library from 2:30 pm to 4 pm. Join us and learn how to achieve self-love and awareness when it comes to domestic violence. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to meet the author and get a chance to win a signed copy of her book!
Gemstones & Jewelry with Connie and Robert Boyd
LUCEDALE, MS __ Join us on Thursday, January 18, at 4 PM for an informative presentation on gemstones and jewelry with Connie and Robert Boyd at the Lucedale-George County Public Library. Mr. Robert Boyd is a skilled lapidarist (stonecutter) and Mrs. Connie Boyd is a talented jeweler. They will be discussing various semi-precious stones including their history, uses, and characteristics. The program is designed for adults aged 18 and over. Refreshments will be provided by the Friends of the Lucedale-George County Public Library. To reserve your spot today, please call us at (601) 947-2123.
Stranger Danger with Jessica Henry, Gulf Coast Center for Non-Violence
LUCEDALE, MS __ Join the Lucedale-George County Public Library for a lesson on “Stranger Danger” on Monday, January 22 at 4 pm. In this program, children aged 5 to 11 years old will learn how to identify a stranger and how to handle a stranger’s interaction. The library has invited special guest speaker Jessica Henry from the Gulf Coast Center for Non-Violence to conduct this important session. The Friends of the Lucedale Public Library will provide refreshments. Don’t miss this opportunity to help your children stay safe!
Healthy Adolescent Relationships
LUCEDALE, MS __ Join the Lucedale-George County Public Library and guest speaker Jessica Henry for a program on building healthy adolescent relationships. This program is geared towards those aged 12-16. The event will take place on Thursday, January 25th at 4 pm. Refreshments will be provided by Friends of The Lucedale Public Library.
For more information contact:
Liz Murphy, Ina Thompson Moss Point Public Library Branch Manager – 228-588-6263
Storytime Tuesday’s with Katie!
MOSS POINT, MS __ Ina Thompson Moss Point Library invites preschool children and families to join us every Tuesday at 10 am for storytime with Katie. Come and enjoy stories in the library vault and a craft! Contact us at 475-7462 for more information.
Children’s Winter Crafts Party!
MOSS POINT, MS __ Join us for a fun-filled winter crafts party at the Ina Thompson Moss Point Library on January 10th from 3-5 PM. We’ll be making two different winter-themed crafts, and all the necessary supplies will be provided. This is a free event, and snacks will also be provided.
Space is limited, so please make sure to reserve your spot by calling us at 228-475-7. The library is located at 4119 Bellview Ave. in Moss Point, MS. We hope to see you there!
Explore Your New Year World With Us!
MOSS POINT, MS __ Ina Thompson Moss Point Library invites you to explore the world of the New Year with us. Book your spot now by calling 228-475-7462. Our upcoming event, “New Year New You,” will focus on decluttering and organizing your life, as well as improving your mental wellness. Join us on January 16, 2024, from 4-6pm to learn about techniques for decluttering and organizing your life from all aspects, so that you can enjoy the New Year and become a new you.
Build Your Terrarium
MOSS POINT, MS __ Ina Thompson Moss Point Library presents “Build Your Terrarium” on Thursday, January 18th from 4-6. Join us to create your very own ecosystem! Supplies will be provided. This event is open to adults 18+. Seating is limited, so sign up today!
Family Collage Party
MOSS POINT, MS __ Join us at the Moss Point Library for a free event, on January 24th, 3-5 pm, where you can learn how to make collages! All necessary supplies will be provided, and you’re welcome to bring your photos to use in your collage. It’s a great opportunity to spend time with your family and learn a new skill. To make a reservation, please call 228-475-7462.
For more information contact:
Jim Thompson, Ocean Springs Municipal Library Branch Manager (228) 875-1193
January Fiber Arts Club Meeting
OCEAN SPRINGS, MS __ Attention all sewing enthusiasts, crocheters, cross-stitchers, and other fiber arts hobbyists! Are you in need of a convenient space to work on your projects? Would you like to connect with fellow crafters and exchange ideas or seek advice? Then come join us on Saturday, January 13th at 10:00 AM in the Ocean Springs Library Maker Space for the Fiber Arts Club meeting. Don’t miss this opportunity to work on your crafts, learn from others, and have fun!
Preliminary Book Club Meeting
OCEAN SPRINGS, MS __ The Ocean Springs Municipal Library is hosting a preliminary Book Club meeting on Tuesday, January 23rd at 5:30 pm in the Makerspace. The purpose of the meeting is to discuss book clubs and gather suggestions about book genres, as well as dates and times for future meetings. If you are unable to attend the meeting, you can request a questionnaire to fill out. We look forward to seeing you there!
Puzzle Competition
OCEAN SPRINGS, MS __ Join us for the Ocean Springs Municipal Library Puzzle Competition, an adult program taking place on Saturday, January 27th at 10:00 AM. You will be divided into groups of four and given an hour and thirty minutes to complete a 300-piece puzzle. Whether you come with your group or by yourself, you are welcome to participate in this exciting challenge. The first-place winner will receive a puzzle trophy that has been made by our 3D printer! Anyone who is 18 or older may register at the library or call 228-875-1193.
Tweens and Teens Drawing Club
OCEAN SPRINGS, MS __ Join the Tweens and Teens Drawing Club at Ocean Springs Municipal Library on Wednesday, January 31st from 4:15-6:15 PM. This club is exclusively for tweens and teens who are interested in learning how to draw, showcase their artwork, help others learn, and make new friends. While some drawing supplies will be provided, you are welcome to bring your own as well. You can arrive late or stay for the whole duration of the club. The club is hosted by Ms. Marianne, who is also passionate about drawing.
Vision Boards 2024
OCEAN SPRINGS, MS __ Ocean Springs Municipal Library is inviting adults to participate in an exciting program called “2024 Vision Board” on Thursday, January 18th at 5:00 PM in the Makerspace. This program aims to help participants create a visual representation of their desires and goals for the year through a vision board. Participants will be provided with a board, as well as markers, paints, and magazines to create their vision board. They are also welcome to bring additional supplies. The program is open for anyone who is 18 or older and interested participants can register at the library or call 228-875-1193.
For more information contact:
George Broadus, Pascagoula Public Library Interim Branch Manager (228) 769-3060
Tuesday Tea Time
PASCAGOULA, MS __ The Pascagoula Public Library cordially invites you to join us every Tuesday for a delightful tea time. 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 tea cup or mug to enhance your tea-drinking experience. Tea time is from 12:00pm to 2:00pm. We hope to see you there!
Yoga in the Stacks
PASCAGOULA, MS __ Join the Pascagoula Public Library for “Yoga in the Stacks” every other Thursday in January from 5:30-6:00 pm. Please bring your mat.
Zumba class
PASCAGOULA, MS __ Pascagoula Public Library will host a morning Zumba class on two Saturdays, January 6th and 20th, from 9am to 10am.
Pascagoula Public Library Winter Paint & Sip!
PASCAGOULA, MS __ Join the Pascagoula Public Library for a memorable evening of painting winter landscapes on Saturday, January 6th, from 12:00 pm to 2:00 pm. If you’re interested, please call or visit the library circulation desk to sign up.
Pokémon Go Scavenger Hunt
PASCAGOULA, MS __ Join the Pascagoula Public Library for a fun-filled scavenger hunt on Saturday, January 13th from 9 am to 5 pm. Professor Palm needs your help in collecting research and participants of the Pokémon Go scavenger hunt will have the opportunity to explore the beautiful city of Pascagoula while searching for Pokémon. The event is divided into two teams – Team Beach and Team Swamp. You can sign up for the event at the library circulation desk or by calling for a placement. Don’t miss this exciting opportunity to be a part of the hunt of the ages!
A Stitch in Time Society
PASCAGOULA, MS __ A Stitch in Time Society is organizing a fiber arts club meeting on Saturday, January 13th from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm. If you are into sewing, crocheting, cross-stitching, or any other fiber art, you are welcome to join. This is a great opportunity to work on your projects and learn from others who share the same passion.
A Stitch in Time Society está organizando una reunión del club de artes de fibra el sábado 13 de enero de 11:00 am a 3:00 pm. Si te gusta coser, hacer crochet, hacer punto de cruz o cualquier otro arte con fibras, puedes unirte. Esta es una gran oportunidad para trabajar en tus proyectos y aprender de otros que comparten la misma pasión.
Teen Talk: How to Love in Relationships, Manage Stress and Stop Bullying
PASCAGOULA, MS __ Attention teenagers! The Pascagoula Public Library is hosting a program called “Teen Talk: How to Love in Relationships, Manage Stress, and Stop Bullying” on January 13, 2024, from 1 pm to 3 pm. This program is aimed at helping teenagers manage their day-to-day stress and learn how to prevent bullying. Additionally, there will be a discussion on love in relationships. Jessica Henry from the Gulf Coast Center for Nonviolence will be leading the program, which is open to ages 12 to 18. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to learn valuable life skills. Sign up today at the Pascagoula Public Library.
Outlander Trivia Luncheon
PASCAGOULA, MS __ Join us at the Pascagoula Public Library on Saturday, January 20th, from 12-2 p.m. for a trivia luncheon dedicated to the OUTLANDER book series and TV show by Diana Gabaldon. Fans of the series are invited to put their knowledge to the test while enjoying Scottish treats and hot tea. We encourage you to come in your finest highland attire, but please leave your “sgian dubh” at home! Placements are limited, so please register at the circulation desk or call (228)769-3060 to reserve your spot.
For more information contact:
Amber Schultze, St. Martin Public Library Branch Manager – 228-392-3250
Beginner Crochet Class
ST. MARTIN, MS __ St. Martin Public Library is hosting a Beginner Crochet class on Saturday, January 20th from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM. This class is designed for those who are new to crochet, but crocheters of any skill level are welcome to join. Due to limited space, please call 228-392-3250 to reserve your spot. This program is only for individuals who are 18 years old or older.
LEGO Club
ST. MARTIN, MS __ Join us at the St. Martin Public Library for the LEGO Club on January 23rd and February 27th at 3:30 p.m. If you have a love for building with LEGOs, then this program is perfect for you! Children are welcome to come to the library’s Children’s area and build with a team or create something on their own. Children who are 10 years old and younger must be accompanied by an adult. So, don’t miss out and call 228-392-3250 to register today!
Homeschool Bird Feeder
ST. MARTIN, MS __ St. Martin Public Library is hosting a Homeschool Bird Feeder Craft event on Wednesday, January 24th for children aged 5-12 years old. Join us for a fun crafting afternoon where we will discuss local birds and create a birdfeeder using popsicle sticks. For more information, please call 228-392-3250.
Repurposed Book Gnome
ST. MARTIN, MS __ Join us for an evening of fun at the St. Martin Public Library on January 25th at 5:00 P.M. We will be repurposing old books into a book gnome craft! All the necessary supplies will be provided for this craft. If you’re interested in attending, please call us at 228-392-3250 to register as space is limited.
For more information contact:
Lauria Barton, Vancleave Public Library Branch Manager – 228-826-5857
Homeschool STEM Day
VANCLEAVE, MS __ Vancleave Public Library will be hosting a STEM Day for homeschoolers of all ages on Wednesday, January 3rd at 1:00 PM. Come join us for fun and interactive STEM-building challenges.
Salt Painting
VANCLEAVE, MS __ Join us at the Vancleave Public Library on Tuesday, January 9th for a fun and unique art project using salt and watercolors. This program is intended for children aged 5-12. Limited supplies are available, so please sign up at the front desk or call 228-826-5857 for more information. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to create a beautiful salt painting!
Book Talk at the ‘Cleave.
VANCLEAVE, MS __ Join us at the Vancleave Public Library for a monthly book talk event! The event is called “Book Talk @ the ‘Cleave” and takes place on the first Tuesday of each month at 2 pm. During this event, we will have a thought-provoking discussion on some of our favorite reads. We encourage you to join us and share some of your most recently read books. Coffee and snacks will be provided, so enjoy some refreshments while chatting about books with fellow book lovers!
Feel the Beat with Tuesday Line Dancing
VANCLEAVE, MS __ Looking for a fun way to stay active and socialize? Every Tuesday from 10-11 am, you can join James Hall at the Vancleave Public Library to learn some old and new moves. This fitness class is open to ages 17 and up, and it’s a great opportunity to keep in shape and make new friends. For more information, please call the library at 228-826-5857. We hope to see you there!
Thursday Dominoes Club
VANCLEAVE, MS __ Join us every Thursday at 1 pm for a variety of table games including dominoes, Spades, or Scrabble at Vancleave Public Library. If you’re interested in playing, feel free to give the library a call at 228-826-5857 for more information.
Cards with Friends
VANCLEAVE, MS _Looking for a fun way to spend your Monday afternoons? Come down to the Vancleave Public Library and join in on our weekly card games with friends! Our Dominoes club members loved playing together so much on Thursdays that they decided to extend their fun to Mondays as well. You’re guaranteed to have a great time filled with laughs and good company. For more information, feel free to check in at the front desk or give us a call at 228-826-5857. We hope to see you there!
Beginning Crochet
VANCLEAVE, MS __ Join us at Vancleave Public Library on Wednesdays at 10 for Beginning Crochet. Let’s learn a new skill together with an introductory lesson on the art of crochet. We kindly ask that you bring your own crochet hook and preferred color of yarn for this class, preferably a light color. This program is open to homeschoolers of all ages. To reserve your spot, please call 228-826-5857.
FREE BINGO !
VANCLEAVE, MS __ Join us at the Vancleave Public Library on the 1st Tuesday of each month at 1 pm for a day of fun. The event starts with Bingo and is followed by a book club meeting. The best part? It’s absolutely FREE! You can also enjoy refreshments provided by the Vancleave Friends of the Library. If you need more information, please call 228-826-5857.
