East Central Events

East Central Public Library Hosts “From the Boneyard” Special Guest Program

PASCAGOULA, MS — East Central Public Library invites the community to explore the fascinating world of animal bone collecting during a special summer program, From the Boneyard, featuring guest speaker Gabrielle Lovelace, on June 4, 2026, at 2:00 p.m.

As part of the library’s Unearth a Story Summer Reading Program, guests will get an up-close look at unique animal skulls and bones while learning about personal collecting, preservation, and the stories these fascinating specimens can tell. Gabrielle Lovelace will share insights from her own collection and discuss the intriguing science and curiosity behind bone collecting.

This educational and interactive event is perfect for curious minds of all ages interested in nature, wildlife, and unusual collections.

The program will take place at East Central Public Library, 21801 Slider Road. For more information, call 228-588-6263 or visit www.JGRLS.org.

East Central Public Library Invites Families to “Unearth a Story” This Summer

Hurley, MS — East Central Public Library is excited to announce its 2026 Summer Library Program, “Unearth a Story,” a free, fun-filled series of events designed especially for elementary students and families.

Registration opens May 30, and programs will begin June 8, with weekly events held Mondays at 2:00 p.m. for elementary students. In addition, preschool programs will take place on Thursdays at 10:00 a.m.

This summer’s theme encourages children to dig into books, discover new ideas, and explore the world around them through exciting, hands-on experiences. Featured programs include:

• June 8: Addie May’s Spotlight Elite Dance Company – Dino Dance
• June 15: “A Story, A Song” – Interactive Storytelling
• June 22: Mississippi Museum of Natural Science with Conservation Educator Meaghan Huseman
• June 29: Freedom Ranch Wildlife Center

All programs are free of charge, and participants can enjoy reading books and earning prizes throughout the summer.

Families looking to explore dinosaur-themed books and activities will find plenty of materials at their local library to spark curiosity and imagination.

For more information, visit www.JGRLS.org or follow @JacksonGeorgeLibrary on Facebook for updates, schedules, and program details.

East Central Public Library Announces Teen Summer Programs for “Unearth Your Stories”

PASCAGOULA, MS — East Central Public Library is inviting teens ages 12–17 to discover creativity, history, science, and hands-on fun this summer with its Unearth Your Stories series, held Mondays at 3:00 PM throughout June.

As part of the library’s Unearth a Story Summer Reading Program, teens can participate in a variety of engaging activities designed to inspire imagination and self-expression:

• June 8 – Worry Worms: Learn beginner crochet techniques while creating adorable stress-relief worms. No experience needed.
• June 15 – Bioplastic Suncatchers: Use cornstarch and natural materials to craft colorful whimsical décor.
• June 22 – Paleography Pals: Explore writing through history, from ancient cuneiform to creative junk journaling.
• June 29 – Clear as Mud: Create colorful mud paint to decorate rocks, clay pots, and more.

These free programs encourage teens to learn new skills, connect with others, and explore creativity in a welcoming environment.

All programs will take place at East Central Public Library, 21801 Slider Road. For additional information, call 228-588-6263 or visit www.JGRLS.org.

East Central Public Library Hosts “Worry Worms” Crochet Program for Teens

HURLEY, MS — East Central Public Library invites teens to unwind and get creative during its Worry Worms program on June 8, 2026, from 3:00–4:00 PM.

Designed for ages 12–17, this beginner-friendly workshop will teach participants how to crochet adorable “worry worms” — soft, squirmy stress relievers that are both fun to make and comforting to keep. No crochet experience is necessary, making this the perfect opportunity for teens to try a new creative skill in a relaxed and welcoming environment.

Part of the library’s Unearth a Story Summer Reading Program, Worry Worms combines creativity, crafting, and stress relief into one fun afternoon activity.

The program will take place at East Central Public Library, 21801 Slider Road. For more information, call 228-588-6263 or visit www.JGRLS.org.

East Central Public Library Invites Families to Solve “Prehistoric Puzzles” This Summer

HURLEY, MS — East Central Public Library is bringing prehistoric fun to the community with Prehistoric Puzzles: All Bones About It, an exciting hands-on summer program taking place on June 10 at 1:30 PM.

Participants will explore the fascinating world of animal skeletons and discover how dramatically different bones can look from the living animal. Guests will test their detective skills by identifying animals based only on their skeletons,  with a prize awarded to the winner!

This engaging educational event is part of the library’s summer programming and is designed for curious minds of all ages.

The program will be held at East Central Public Library, 21801 Slider Road. For more information, call 228-588-6263 or visit www.JGRLS.org.

East Central Public Library Hosts “From the Boneyard” Special Guest Program

PASCAGOULA, MS — East Central Public Library invites the community to explore the fascinating world of animal bone collecting during a special summer program, From the Boneyard, featuring guest speaker Gabrielle Lovelace, on June 4, 2026, at 2:00 p.m.

As part of the library’s Unearth a Story Summer Reading Program, guests will get an up-close look at unique animal skulls and bones while learning about personal collecting, preservation, and the stories these fascinating specimens can tell. Gabrielle Lovelace will share insights from her own collection and discuss the intriguing science and curiosity behind bone collecting.

This educational and interactive event is perfect for curious minds of all ages interested in nature, wildlife, and unusual collections.

The program will take place at East Central Public Library, 21801 Slider Road. For more information, call 228-588-6263 or visit www.JGRLS.org.

East Central Public Library Hosts “Bioplastic Sun Catchers” Teen Craft Program

HURLEY, MS — East Central Public Library invites teens to get creative with science and art during the Bioplastic Sun Catchers program on Monday, June 15 at 3:00 PM.

Designed for ages 12–17, this hands-on activity will teach participants how to use cornstarch and other natural materials to create colorful and whimsical sun catchers. Teens will explore the fun side of bioplastics while designing unique decorative pieces to take home.

Part of the library’s Unearth a Story Summer Reading Program, this engaging event combines creativity, science, and sustainability into a memorable summer experience.

The program will be held at East Central Public Library, 21801 Slider Road. For more information, call 228-588-6263 or visit www.JGRLS.org.

East Central Public Library Hosts “Miniature Dino Garden” Craft Program

PASCAGOULA, MS — East Central Public Library is bringing prehistoric creativity to life with its Miniature Dino Garden program on June 16 at 4:00 PM.

Participants will have the opportunity to create their own miniature Jurassic-inspired garden using provided materials, including tiny dinosaur figures and decorative greenery. This hands-on craft activity is part of the library’s Unearth a Story Summer Reading Program and is perfect for dinosaur fans and creative minds alike.

Supplies are limited, and registration is required. Guests are encouraged to sign up at the circulation desk by June 12 to reserve their spot.

The program will take place at East Central Public Library, 21801 Slider Road. For additional information, call 228-588-6263 or visit www.JGRLS.org.

East Central Public Library Invites Teens to Explore the History of Writing with “Paleography Pals”

HURLEY, MS — East Central Public Library is taking teens on a journey through the history of writing with its creative summer program, Paleography Pals, on Monday, June 22 at 3:00 PM.

Designed for ages 12–17, this engaging program will introduce participants to different forms of writing throughout history — from ancient cuneiform tablets to modern junk journaling techniques. Teens will have the opportunity to learn about historical communication styles while exploring creative expression through hands-on activities.

Paleography Pals is part of the library’s Unearth a Story Summer Reading Program, encouraging young people to discover history, creativity, and storytelling in fun and interactive ways.

The event will be held at East Central Public Library, 21801 Slider Road. For more information, call 228-588-6263 or visit www.JGRLS.org.

East Central Public Library Invites Community on a Groovy Nature Odyssey

HURLEY, MS — East Central Public Library is taking summer reading outdoors with An “Alright, Alright, Alright” Nature Odyssey on June 26, 2026, at 10:00 AM at Lum Cumbest Park.

Blending humor, literature, and nature, this unique walking adventure invites participants to enjoy a laid-back trek through local trails while embracing vintage “slacker-era” vibes inspired by classic road-trip storytelling and pop culture. Attendees are encouraged to dress in their favorite retro attire and prepare for a fun, easygoing outdoor experience.

The event is part of the library’s Unearth a Story Summer Reading Program and offers a creative way for the community to connect with nature, movement, and storytelling.

Participants will meet at Lum Cumbest Park. For more information, contact East Central Public Library at 228-588-6263 or visit www.JGRLS.org.

East Central Public Library Hosts Creative “Clear as Mud” Teen Program

HURLEY, MS — Teens are invited to get creative and a little messy at East Central Public Library’s Clear as Mud program on Monday, June 29 at 3:00 PM.

Designed for ages 12–17, this hands-on summer activity will give participants the opportunity to create assorted colors of mud paint to decorate rocks, clay pots, and more. The fun and interactive program encourages creativity while exploring artistic techniques inspired by natural materials.

Clear as Mud is part of the library’s Unearth a Story Summer Reading Program, offering unique and engaging activities for local teens throughout the summer.

The event will be held at East Central Public Library, 21801 Slider Road. For additional information, call 228-588-6263 or visit www.JGRLS.org.

            East Central Public Library in Hurley Hosts Weekly “Teatime Thursday” Gathering

Hurley, MS — The East Central Public Library invites the community to slow down and connect at its weekly “Teatime Thursday” gathering, held every Thursday at 1:00 PM.

Hosted by Ms. Tammy, this relaxing program offers a welcoming space for conversation, camaraderie, and a shared appreciation of tea. Attendees are encouraged to sit a spell, enjoy good company, and take a moment to unwind in a friendly, low-key setting.

“Teatime Thursday” provides an opportunity for community members to connect, share stories, and enjoy a peaceful break in their day.  The program is free and open to the public, and no registration is required.

For more information, contact East Central Public Library at 228-588-6263 or visit www.JGRLS.org.

East Central Public Library Invites Families to Join “1,000 Books Before Kindergarten” Challenge

HURLEY, MS – The East Central Public Library is excited to launch the 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten program, designed to inspire a lifelong love of reading in young children. This free, year-round challenge encourages families to read together and track their progress—one book at a time.

The program is open to children from birth to age 5. Even repeated books count, and families can earn a small prize for every 100 books read. After reaching the 1,000-book milestone, participants will receive a special prize to celebrate their achievement.

Sign-ups begin this September at East Central Public Library. “Reading with your child every day builds vocabulary, strengthens bonds, and lays the foundation for future learning,” said Lynn Rainey, branch manager.

Read it and reap—1,000 adventures await!

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.