Jackson George Reginal Library System is excited to invite our community partners to participate in our “Adventure Begins at Your Library” Summer library kickoff event and community resources fair. The event will take place on May 31st from 4-6 pm at the Gautier Community Center, 2012 Library Lane, Gautier, MS, and promises to be a fun-filled day for all attendees.
We will have games, a petting zoo, food trucks, and a concert performance from the band Excelsior at 6:30 pm. Excelsior’s rich and colorful historical sound is rooted in the tradition of carnival, Mobile, and the Gulf Coast. The Excelsior Band© has been performing in the Mobile area since 1883, and they are well-known for leading Mardi Gras parades.
If you are a community agency or business interested in showcasing your services and celebrating the kickoff for summer, we would love to have you join us. Please contact 228-769-3060 to learn more about how you can participate in this exciting event. We can’t wait to see you there!
EAST CENTRAL PUBLIC LIBRARY
For more information contact:
Lynn Rainey branch manager – 228-588-6263
Celebrate the Paranormal
HURLEY, MS __ Join us at the East Central Public Library on Thursday, May 2 at 4 PM to celebrate the paranormal. Mr. William will be sharing chilling tales of things that go bump in the night, strange visitors, and the unexplainable. You are also invited to bring your own story and share your personal experiences with the paranormal. Don’t worry, we’ll believe you! Come and sit if you dare.
Mother’s Day Macrame
HURLEY, MS __ The East Central Public Library is hosting an event on Thursday, May 9th at 4 pm. If you’re still searching for the perfect Mother’s Day gift, look no further! Ms. Rebecca will guide you in creating a beautiful pair of macrame earrings and a gift box to match. The Friends of the East Central Public Library will provide all necessary materials for this craft. Don’t miss out on this opportunity!
Celebrate Military Appreciation Month: Movie screening of “THE REGISTRY”
HURLEY, MS __East Central Public Library invites you to celebrate Military Appreciation Month with a special movie screening of “THE REGISTRY” on Thursday, May 28th at 4pm. The movie tells the stories of veterans of World War II who served in the Military Intelligence Service, a secret unit of mostly Japanese Americans who fought against the Japanese enemy in the Pacific. The veterans have recorded their names in the M.I.S. registry and want to ensure their legacy lives on. The event will be held at the library, and refreshments will be provided by the Friends of the East Central Public Library. Don’t miss this opportunity to honor our veterans and learn more about their service!
KATHLEEN MCILWAIN PUBLIC LIBRARY OF GAUTIER
For more information contact:
Melinda “Ann” Rushing, Branch Manager – 228-497-4531
Star Wars Storytime and Craft
GAUTIER, MS __ Join us for Star Wars Storytime and Craft on May 2nd at Gautier Public Library with Katie. May the 4th be with you!
Evening Storytime and Author Signing with LaShanda Stringfield,
“Our Brother Has Down Syndrome”
GAUTIER, MS __ The Gautier Public Library is hosting an evening Storytime and author signing event featuring LaShanda Stringfield, a local author from Ocean Springs who wrote a book about her family’s experience of having a child with Down Syndrome. The book is titled “OUR BROTHER HAS DOWN SYNDROME” and the event is scheduled for Thursday, May 2nd from 4 pm to 6 pm. LaShanda has worked at various branches of the Jackson-George Regional Library System, including Moss Point, Gautier, and Pascagoula. Her inspiration to write the book came from reading “Our Mom Has Cancer” by Abigail and Adrienne Ackermann when she was young, and her passion for reading and writing began at an early age when her mother read to her every night.
Dinosaur Themed Storytime with Katie
GAUTIER, MS __ Gather your preschooler for a dinosaur themed Storytime with Katie and a craft on May 9th at 10 am at Gautier Public Library.
DIY Musical Instruments with Katlin
GAUTIER, MS __ Join us at the Gautier Public Library as we partner with Katlin from Coastal Harmony to host a Do-It-Yourself Musical Instrument program. Your child will have the opportunity to make their very own egg shaker, maraca, castanets, harmonica, ocean drum, pan flute, wrist bells, or tambourine. This program is free and open to families. However, supplies are limited, so please sign up at the library in advance. Katlin is a board-certified music therapist (MT-BC) and has her master’s in social work (MSW). She has clinical experience working with children with varying disabilities, school-aged in behavioral intervention programs, adolescents in correction and alternative to juvenile detention programs, adolescents and adults with substance use disorder, adults with disabilities, survivors of human trafficking, and hospice music lessons & more.
Crime Will Tell” True Crime Club: Episode 23, Andrea Yates
GAUTIER, MS __ Join the “Crime Will Tell” True Crime Club on Thursday, May 16 at 5 pm, at the Gautier Public Library. Episode 23 will focus on the infamous Andrea Yates case and the club will use various resources to explore it. The event was rescheduled from May 9th and will be held on the 2nd Thursday of each month. You can find a resource list on the Gautier Public Library Facebook Page, in the library or you can scan the QR code or request it via email. Please note that this program is exclusively for adults aged 18 years and above.
Monthly Meeting of the Friends of the Library
GAUTIER, MS __ The Gautier Public Library is organizing the Monthly Meeting of the Friends of the Library for the Friends of the Gautier Library. The meeting will take place on Tuesday, May 28 at 9:30 am at the Gautier Public Library. The Friends of the Library Membership Meeting is held on the 4th Tuesday of every month. During the meeting, we’ll discuss fundraising, marketing the library and giving feedback and suggestions on programs and events. You can become a member by paying just $5 for an individual or $10 for a family.
Teen Advisory Group
GAUTIER, MS __ The Gautier Public Library is hosting a Teen Advisory Group meeting on Saturday, May 25, from 1 PM to 2 PM. This group meets on the 4th Saturday of every month and is open to students in 6th to 12th grades. You can enjoy food and have fun while learning about various volunteering opportunities at the library to earn service hours. Don’t miss out on this chance to connect with other teens and make a difference in your community.
LUCEDALE-GEORGE COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY
For more information contact:
Cynthia Morgan, Branch Manager (601) 947-2123
What is Horticulture?
LUCEDALE, MS __ The Lucedale-George County Public Library is hosting an event called “What Is Horticulture?” on Saturday, May 4th at 10AM. Ann Howard, from the Mississippi State Extension Office, will be there to teach everyone about horticulture and how it impacts our daily lives. The event is primarily aimed at children aged 4-10, but people of all ages are welcome to attend.
Harry Potter Trivia Night
LUCEDALE, MS __ Lucedale-George County Public Library invites you to join us on Thursday, May 9th at 4pm for our “Made with Love” event. This program is specially designed for children aged 5-11 to create extra special crafts for Mother’s Day, but all are welcome to attend. The supplies and light refreshments will be provided by the friends of the Luce Dale George County Library. To sign up for the event, please call (601)947-2123. We look forward to seeing you there!
LU- Safe Haven Bingo With the Baby Doe Initiative
LUCEDALE, MS __ Looking for a fun way to learn about Mississippi’s Safe Haven Law? Look no further than the Lucedale-George County Public Library! Join us on Tuesday, May 14th at 2:00 PM for Safe Haven Bingo with the Baby Doe Initiative. This special event will feature a presentation by Jess Coreau, Director of Operations at Baby Doe Initiative, who will answer all your questions about the Safe Haven Law. While you’re learning, you can also play bingo and win prizes! Light snacks will be provided by the Friends of the Lucedale-George County Public Library, so come hungry and ready to learn. This is a great opportunity to get involved in your community, meet new people, and support a great cause.
Made with Love
LUCEDALE, MS __ Join us for an exciting Harry Potter Trivia Night at the Lucedale-George County Public Library! The event will be held on Thursday, May 23 at 4 PM. All wizards and witches are welcome to participate. Although the program is designed for ages 11-17, anyone can join in on the fun. Refreshments will be provided by the Friends of the Lucedale Public Library. We hope to see you
there!
Flower Power: Canvas Art With Pressed Flowers
LUCEDALE, MS __ Join us for a pressed flower crafting program and create a beautiful art canvas using pressed flowers. The program will take place on Wednesday, May 29th at 2 pm in the Lucedale-George County Public Library. All the necessary supplies will be provided by the Friends of the Lucedale-George County Library.
Get Wild About Adventure – Summer Library Kick- Off Event
LUCEDALE, MS __ Join us for the Summer Library Program kick-off event at the Lucedale-George County Public Library on May 30th at 2 pm. The event features a presentation by Elliott Fackler from the Hattiesburg Zoo. Children and youth are welcome to attend and learn about unique animals. The event is free to attend, and refreshments will be provided by the Friends of the Lucedale-George County Public Library. If you have any questions, please call (601) 947-2123. Don’t miss this opportunity to get wild about adventure!
INA THOMPSON MOSS POINT PUBLIC LIBRARY
For more information contact:
Liz Murphy, branch manager – 228-588-6263
Mother’s Day Afternoon Tea
MOSS POINT, MS __ Join us for a special Mother’s Day Afternoon Tea at the Ina Thompson Moss Point Library on Saturday, May 4th from 2-3 PM. Treat yourself to delicious teas and light refreshments provided by the Friends of Moss Point Library. Seating is limited, so please RSVP by calling (228) 475- 7462.
D.I.Y. Bath Salt
MOSS POINT, MS __ Join us at the Ina Thompson Moss Point Library on Tuesday, May 14th from 5-6 PM to learn how to make your own D.I.Y. bath salts with Tina. Indulge your senses and create the perfect gift for yourself or someone special. This event is intended for ages 18 and above, and all supplies will be provided. Space is limited, so please RSVP by calling (228) 475-7462.
D.I.Y. Jewelry Making
MOSS POINT, MS __ Join us at the Ina Thompson Moss Point Library on Thursday, May 23rd from 4-6 pm to create your very own jewelry! You can make bracelets, earrings, necklaces, or pendants and all the necessary supplies will be provided. Please note that this activity is for adults aged 18 and over and space is limited, so please either call (228) 475- 7462 or visit us in person to reserve your spot today!
Crocodile Themed Story Time
MOSS POINT, MS _Join us for a story time with a crocodile theme at the Moss Point Library on May 7th at 10am.
Eric Carle Themed Storytime
MOSS POINT, MS __ Join us for a preschool Storytime and crafts at the Moss Point Library on May 14th at 10 am, featuring The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle.
Color Themed Story Time
MOSS POINT, MS __ Ina Thompson Moss Point Library is hosting a color-themed preschool story time and craft on May 28th at 10 am in the Story Time Vault at Moss Point Library.
OCEAN SPRINGS PUBLIC LIBRARY
For more information contact:
Jim Thompson, Branch Manager (228) 857-1193
Adult Watercolor Class
OCEAN SPRINGS, MS __ Ocean Springs Municipal Library is pleased to announce its upcoming adult program – Watercolor Class. This class will be held every second Monday at 10 AM. Whether you are a beginner or an expert, you are welcome to join us for this monthly art class. Marianne, our experienced instructor, will teach a short lesson each month. In the rest of the class time, you can enjoy soft music, paint, and make new friends. If you are interested in this class, please call 228-875-1193 or visit the library to register. We look forward to seeing you there!
All-Abilities Story Time
OCEAN SPRINGS, MS __ Are you looking for a fun and engaging activity to participate in? Join us at Ocean Springs Municipal Library every third Monday at 10 for All Abilities Story Time! Our story time is designed for adults who are differently abled but is open to all ages. You won’t want to miss out on the fun and engaging stories that we have lined up, paired with a sensory-filled craft. Our program is inclusive, so everyone is welcome to join us.
Junior Mystery Club
OCEAN SPRINGS, MS __ If you’re a junior who loves to solve mysteries and think outside the box, Ocean Springs Municipal Library’s Junior Mystery Club might be perfect for you! The club meets every other Thursday from 5:00-6:00, and they have meetings scheduled throughout the year, including May 2nd, May 16th, May 30th, and many more. It sounds like a great opportunity to meet other kids who share your interests and have some fun solving mysteries together.
Tower Garden
OCEAN SPRINGS, MS __ Discover the benefits and importance of tower gardening with presenter Merryl Gallahar-Nall at the Ocean Springs Municipal Library on May 20th, 5:30pm.
Tea 101
OCEAN SPRINGS, MS __ The Ocean Springs Municipal Library is hosting a Tea 101 event on Saturday, May 25th from 1:00 to 2:00 in the afternoon. The event is a celebration of all things Tea, and will feature a presentation by Tammy Howard, a true tea enthusiast. There will be information on different types of teas, as well as food for all attendees to enjoy.
Please note that space is limited, so if you’d like to attend, please RSVP by calling 228-875-1193. You can also stop by the library to reserve your spot.
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
Gardening at the Library
ST. MARTIN, MS __ The St. Martin Public Library in collaboration with the Coastal Garden Society is organizing a gardening event on Saturday, May 4th at 10:00 a.m. Children from the St. Martin community are invited to participate in this event to help beautify the library. The event will begin with a Storytime on gardening and pollination in the Children’s Library, followed by planting new life in the community garden beds located by the side entrance of the building. Please note that children aged 10 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Pre-registration is required for this event as space is limited. To register, please call us at 228-392-3250. All required supplies for the event will be provided by the Coastal Garden Society and Friends of the St. Martin Public Library.
Beginner Crochet
ST. MARTIN, MS __ Are you interested in learning how to crochet? If so, the St. Martin Public Library has a great opportunity for you! On Saturday, May 11th, they are hosting a beginner’s crochet class. Whether you’re just starting out or are an experienced crocheter, you’re welcome to attend. The class will run from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM, and space is limited, so be sure to call 228-392-3250 to sign up. Please note that this program is intended for those ages 18 and up. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to learn a new skill and meet some fellow crocheters!
Mother’s Day Tea Party
ST. MARTIN, MS __ The St. Martin Public Library is hosting a Mother’s Day Tea Party on May 7th at 3:30 p.m. You are invited to join us for a lovely occasion! Dress up and come along with your mom or a motherly figure. Youth are welcome to decorate cookies and have teatime. However, children under 10 must be accompanied by an adult. Friends of the Library will provide refreshments. To register for the event, please call 228-392-3250.
Youth Tie Dye
ST. MARTIN, MS __ Join us for a fun-filled afternoon at the St. Martin Public Library’s Youth Tie Dye event, on May 14th at 4:30 p.m. This event is open to all youths aged 6 to 12 grades. You will have the chance to create your own tie-dye shirt at the library! Do you have a stubborn stain on your favorite t-shirt or need to add more color to your wardrobe? Bring a T-shirt and enjoy tie-dyeing with us! Please note that T-shirts will not be provided for this program. Pizza will be served at 4:30 p.m. and tie-dyeing will begin at 5:00 p.m. To register, please call us at 228-392-3250. Don’t miss out on this exciting event!
Homeschool: Weave on a Little Loom
ST. MARTIN, MS __ The St. Martin Public Library is organizing a homeschool event where children of all ages are invited to participate in a fun weaving and textiles activity. The activity will involve weaving on a small loom and creating a small wall hanging. All children who are 10 years old or under should be accompanied by an adult. As space is limited, please call 228-392-3250 to register for the event that is scheduled on Wednesday, May 15th at 1:00 p.m.
Bring Your Own Device (BYOD)
ST. MARTIN, MS __ St. Martin Public Library invites you to bring your own device (BYOD) and tap into the world of digital library resources such as OverDrive, hoopla, Transparent Languages, Kanopy, and Libby. With your library card, you can instantly access a wide range of digital books, audiobooks, movies, TV shows, and language learning resources. The digital library is open 24/7, so you can enjoy your favorite titles anytime, anywhere. For assistance in downloading and setting up JGRLS library apps on your device, come and join us on Tuesday, May 21, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the library.
St. Martin Public Library Lego Club
ST. MARTIN, MS __ Come and join us at the St. Martin Public Library on Tuesday, May 21st at 3:30 P.M. for a fun-filled Lego building session. If you are a LEGO enthusiast, this program is perfect for you! We provide the LEGOs, and you bring your creativity to build amazing creations. Children are welcome to participate in the Lego Club at the Children’s area. Whether you want to build with a team or create something on your own, this program is perfect for children of all ages. However, children under the age of 10 must be accompanied by an adult. If you’re interested in joining the Lego Club, please call 228-392-3250 to register today!
Summer Kick Off Party
ST. MARTIN, MS __ The St. Martin Public Library is hosting a Summer Kick-Off Party on Wednesday, May 29th, from 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm. Join us for an exciting afternoon filled with food trucks, games, arts & crafts, and light refreshments. This event is sponsored by the Friends of the St. Martin Library, and we will also have registration for the Summer Library Program available for all ages. Come and have some fun!
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.
Sophie’s Universe Crochet-Along
VANCLEAVE, MS __ Join Sophie’s Universe Crochet-Along at Vancleave Public Library, starting Wednesday, May 1st at 10 am. This crochet-along program is based on a book 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 simultaneously. Contact the library for more information at 228-826-5857.
Build a Birdfeeder
VANCLEAVE, MS __ Vancleave Public Library invites homeschoolers to build a custom hummingbird feeder on Wednesday, May 1st at 1:00 PM. Supplies are limited, so please sign up at the front desk or call 228-826-5857 for more information.
Create a Suncatcher
VANCLEAVE, MS __ Join us at the Vancleave Public Library on Tuesday, May 7th at 4 PM to design a unique suncatcher for your house. This program is intended for children between the ages of five and twelve. Supplies are limited, so please sign up at the front desk or call 228-826-5857 for more information.
Mosaic Madness
VANCLEAVE, MS __ The Vancleave Public Library is organizing a program called “Mosaic Madness” on Tuesday, May 14th at 4pm. This program is intended for patrons between the ages of twelve and seventeen. During this program, participants will get the opportunity to create their own mosaic artwork. Due to limited supplies, interested patrons are advised to sign up at the front desk or call 228-826-5857 for more information.
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. For more information, please call 228-334-1296. This event is sponsored by the Friends of the Vancleave Library.
