Gautier Events

Earn, Save, Spend, Budget! Kids Can Learn About Personal Finance at the Kathleen McIlwain Public Library Starting January 2025

GAUTIER, MS – Young people in Gautier will soon have an exciting opportunity to explore financial literacy topics—such as earning, saving, spending, sharing, and budgeting—in a fun and engaging way. Beginning January 2025, the Kathleen McIlwain Public Library of Gautier will offer hands-on in-person programs and take-home learning tools as part of the Thinking Money for Kids initiative.

The library is proud to announce that it has been selected as one of only 300 libraries nationwide to receive a Thinking Money for Kids Program Kit from the American Library Association (ALA) and the FINRA Investor Education Foundation. This unique kit is filled with expertly curated resources designed to help children ages 3 to 12 learn valuable financial education concepts—both at the library and at home.

“We are thrilled to bring the Thinking Money for Kids program to the Kathleen McIlwain Public Library,” said Ann Rushing, branch manager. “Parents and caregivers are encouraged to visit the library to check out one of our new Playaway Launchpad tablets, pre-loaded with fun and interactive games focused on personal finance. These kid-friendly tablets are perfect for learning at home, and we’re excited to also host creative, in-library programs in the months ahead.”

The Playaway Launchpad tablets are designed specifically for kids and require no internet connection, making them perfect for on-the-go learning. Available for checkout starting January 2nd, these durable devices feature engaging financial education games, such as Pet Cents, Making Mooo-lah, Currency Conga, and Penny Pinchers’ Party.

Teen Air Dry Clay Program at Gautier Public Library!

GAUTIER, MS __ Teens ages 13-18, unleash your creativity with us on Saturday, December 14th, from 12–1 p.m. for an exciting air-dry clay workshop! Learn various techniques to create your own unique clay bowls, with all supplies provided. This free event is a perfect opportunity to explore hands-on crafting in a relaxed, supportive setting. Space is limited, so be sure to reserve your spot by calling 228-497-4531. Don’t miss out on this chance to make something special—grab a friend and join the fun at the library!

Storytime with Santa at Gautier Public Library!

GAUTIER, MS __ Join us for a magical morning with Santa on Thursday, December 5th, at 10 a.m.! Santa will be reading his favorite Christmas classics, answering questions about his reindeer, elves, and life at the North Pole, and posing for festive photos. This joyful event is sponsored by Toys for Tots and the Gautier Friends of the Library, making it extra special for families in our community.

And don’t forget—Gautier Public Library is a Toys for Tots drop-off location, so feel free to bring a new, unwrapped toy to help spread holiday cheer to others. We look forward to celebrating with you and Santa himself!

Doll House Christmas Makeover Event

GAUTIER, MS __ Get ready for a festive crafting experience! Join us at Gautier Public Library on Saturday, December 7th, from 1 PM to 2 PM for our Doll House Christmas Makeover event. Adults are invited to embrace the holiday spirit and transform simple doll houses into enchanting winter wonderlands! All supplies are provided, so just bring your creativity and holiday cheer. Spaces are limited, so call the library today to reserve your spot. Let’s make this season magical—one miniature house at a time!

December Storytime with Katie!

GAUTIER, MS __ Join us at the Gautier Public Library every Thursday at 10:00 AM for Storytime with Katie! We’ve got fun themes lined up this December: Winter on December 12, Reindeer on December 19, and Feelings on December 26. Each session features music, crafts, and beloved picture books, making it the perfect way for preschoolers and younger children to enjoy the holiday season. Don’t miss out—bring your little ones for a joyful morning of stories and creativity!

Tween Holiday Fun at Gautier Public Library!

GAUTIER, MS __ The Gautier Public Library invites tweens ages 10-13 to join us for a festive Tween Ornament Painting event on Thursday, December 19th, from 1:00 to 2:00 PM. This fun-filled afternoon offers a perfect opportunity for young artists to unleash their creativity and get into the holiday spirit by painting their own unique ornaments to take home. Whether you’re an experienced painter or just love holiday crafts, this event promises a joyful and engaging experience. Space is limited, so come early and bring your imagination and holiday cheer to the Gautier Public Library!

Children’s Ornament Painting

GAUTIER, MS __ Little artists, it’s time to get festive! Kids ages 5-12 are invited to Gautier Public Library for Children’s Ornament Painting on Friday, December 20, from 1 PM – 2 PM. Join us to paint your own wooden Christmas ornament and add a special touch to your holiday decor! Space is limited, so call (228)-497-4531 to reserve a spot today.

 Christmas Movie Night at Gautier Public Library

GAUTIER, MS __Christmas Movie Night at Gautier Public Library is out of this world! Join us for a showing of the 1964 sci-fi classic Santa Claus Conquers the Martians on Saturday, December 21st, from 5 PM – 7 PM.

Bring your lawn chair or blanket for an outdoor movie experience (or indoors if the weather turns frosty). Enjoy free popcorn, soda, and water as you watch Santa blast off to Mars with Earth kids for a holiday adventure like no other!

Don’t miss the Martian toy factory, space journeys, and a robot-turned-toy in this family-friendly Christmas sci-fi treat.

Gautier Public Library’s Page Turners Book Club: Dive into Mexican Gothic This December!

GAUTIER, MS __ The Gautier Public Library’s Page Turners Book Club invites you to a captivating discussion on Mexican Gothic by Silvia Moreno-Garcia, a New York Times bestseller described by NPR’s Fresh Air as “a ghastly treat to read.” Join us on Monday, December 23rd, at 1:00 PM at Garden House Brew Co. in Gautier for an engaging conversation with fellow book lovers.

Page Turners meets on the fourth Monday of each month, offering a welcoming space for adults to connect and share insights about the monthly book selection. Scan the QR code to join the book club and explore the exciting lineup of 2024 titles. Special thanks to Garden House Brew Co. for sponsoring this enriching program. Don’t miss out—grab a cup of coffee and immerse yourself in great literature!

Teen Advisory Group at the Gautier Public Library

GAUTIER, MS __ Are you a student in 6th to 12th grade? Join us every 4th Saturday at 1:00 PM for the Gautier Public Library’s Teen Advisory Group! It’s a great way to make a difference, earn volunteer hours, and have fun with friends. Plus, there will be food and plenty of opportunities to share your ideas for future library events and programs. Don’t miss out on this chance to get involved and make your voice heard!

Monthly Meeting of the Friends of the Library

GAUTIER, MS __ Be part of something special at our monthly Friends of the Library meeting on Wednesday, November 27th, at 10:00 am! Meet with fellow members to discuss ways we can support the library through fundraising, creative marketing, and sharing ideas for programs and events. Your voice and ideas make a difference! Membership is just $5 for individuals or $10 for families, and all are welcome to join. Let’s work together to keep our library vibrant and full of opportunities for everyone!

Crime War Tell: A True Crime Club at the Gautier Public Library

GAUTIER, MS __ Calling all true crime enthusiasts! Join us every 2nd Thursday at 5 PM for Crime War Tell: A True Crime Club at the Gautier Public Library. Each month, we’ll dive into a well-known true crime case or criminal using a variety of fascinating resources. You can find the resource list on our Facebook page, in the library, by scanning the QR code, or by requesting it via email. This program is for adults 18 and older, so come prepared for intriguing discussions and insights into some of the most notorious cases in history!