Gautier Events

Earn, Save, Spend, Budget! Kids Can Learn About Personal Finance at the Kathleen McIlwain Public Library This February

GAUTIER, MS – This February, kids in Gautier can dive into the world of personal finance with engaging, hands-on programs and tools at the Kathleen McIlwain Public Library of Gautier. Through the Thinking Money for Kids initiative, children will explore topics like earning, saving, spending, sharing, and budgeting in a way that’s both fun and educational.

The library is honored to be one of only 300 libraries nationwide selected to receive a Thinking Money for Kids Program Kit from the American Library Association (ALA) and the FINRA Investor Education Foundation. This special kit is filled with resources designed to help children ages 3 to 12 learn essential financial skills both at the library and at home.

“We’re excited to bring financial literacy to life for kids in our community,” said Ann Rushing, branch manager. “February is the perfect time to visit the library, explore our new Playaway Launchpad tablets, and participate in fun in-library programs that make learning about money exciting.”

The Playaway Launchpad tablets, available for checkout starting February 1st, are kid-friendly, durable devices pre-loaded with financial education games such as Pet Cents, Making Mooo-lah, Currency Conga, and Penny Pinchers’ Party. These tablets don’t require an internet connection, making them great for learning at home or on the go.

Throughout February, the library will host interactive programs designed to teach financial concepts in a fun and accessible way for kids and families. Stay tuned for program details and don’t miss this chance to help your child build valuable life skills.

For more information, visit the Kathleen McIlwain Public Library of Gautier

🩸 Be a Hero at the Gautier Public Library Blood Drive! 🩸

GAUTIER, MS __ Join us on Monday, February 3, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM, at the Kathleen McIlwain Public Library for a life-saving blood drive hosted by Mississippi Blood Services. Your donation can make a difference in someone’s life! Donors must be 17 or older (16 with signed parental consent) and have a valid ID. Don’t forget to eat within 4 hours before donating and stay hydrated before and after!
Sign up today using the Blood Drive Code: 1795 and complete your same-day Donor History Questionnaire by scanning the QR code. Let’s save lives together—one donation at a time!

Storytime with Katie at Gautier Public Library – A Month of Fun and Learning!

GAUTIER, MS __ Join us every Thursday at 10 AM this February for Storytime with Katie at the Gautier Public Library! Each week, we’ll explore exciting themes like dogs, Valentine’s Day, vehicles, and alligators/crocodiles through music, crafts, and beloved picture books. This event is perfect for children of preschool age and younger. Don’t miss out on this weekly adventure that sparks imagination and learning!

Page Turners Book Club: Discuss “Yellowface” at the Gautier Public Library

Gautier, MS – The Gautier Public Library invites all book enthusiasts to its Page Turners Book Club, now with a new date and time! Join us on Saturday, February 15th, at 10:30 AM for an engaging discussion of Yellowface by R.F. Kuang, a gripping and thought-provoking bestseller.
This Reese’s Book Club pick explores the complex worlds of authorship, identity, and privilege, making it a must-read for avid readers and critical thinkers alike.
Whether you’re a longtime member or new to book clubs, this event offers an inviting space to share your thoughts and meet others who share your passion for reading.
Don’t miss the chance to dive deep into this unforgettable story with fellow book lovers. For more information, call 228-497-4531 or visit www.JGRLS.org.

Monthly Meeting of the Friends of the Library

GAUTIER, MS __ Be part of something special at our monthly Friends of the Library meeting on the 4th Wednesday 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!