Welcome to a summer of fun at your local Mississippi public library! Mississippi participates in the annual Collaborative Summer Library Program, a national program that allows our libraries to pool their resources on a joint theme. It makes planning and implementing a summer of reading fun just that much easier. 2024's theme is "Adventure Begins at Your Library" and even though it's not officially summer yet (two days left!), this library celebration has already begun. Here are just a few of the amazing things going on at libraries across the state this summer, because if you haven't visited lately, you really oughtta.
LEGOs foster creativity and imagination, while helping kids develop fine motor and problem solving skills. Many local libraries have a LEGO stash of their own and others use the LEGO and DUPLO kits available to borrow from MLC. The Bolivar County Library System partnered with their local Mississippi State Extension agent to throw an Adventures with LEGOs program:
Learning about plants can foster a love for the natural world and the environment around us. Many of Mississippi's public libraries now offer Seed Libraries, which allow patrons to take seeds to plant at no cost. Sebastopol Public Library, a branch of the Central Mississippi Regional Library System, recently held a program that helped kids explore the wide world of plants.
Summer Library Programs aren't just for kids! The Ocean Springs Library, a branch of Jackson-George Regional Library System partnered with a local grocery store, sub shop, arts center, and their Mississippi State Extension agent to host an adult charcuterie program. Programs like these fill a niche for people who want to learn more about current culinary trends.
Being exposed to local wildlife helps children learn more about the environment around them. The Pontotoc County Library, a branch of the Dixie Regional Library System, partnered with Mississippi Wildlife Rehabilitation to show off owls, turtles, hawks, and snakes: animals we know and love here in the Sip.
Not only does music improve mood and creativity, it has also been shown to help with memory. Plus? It's just plain fun. The Pass Christian Library recently partnered with a local musician to hold a Mississippi Blues Harmonica workshop for teens.
The Evelyn T. Majure Public Library in Utica, a branch of the Jackson Hinds Library System, helped kids increase their science knowledge by holding a program that included DIY balloon hovercraft. This STREAM program was a big success.
The Vicksburg-Warren County Public Library partnered with the River City Radio Control Club to give kids a front seat view of how flight works. Not only did this kids learn about the science of flight, they had a great time doing it.
The Summer Library Program at some Mississippi libraries is already well
under way, while some don't plan to begin until the end of July. Check this directory for your local library system and give them a call to find out when the fun in your area is scheduled.
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