On Sunday, May 12, we honor the amazing women who have played significant roles in our lives.  From biological mothers to stepmothers, grandmothers to other mother figures, so many women deserve appreciation for their unwavering love and support. Even though Mother’s Day is a one-day celebration, we think that the whole month of May is a great time to bring your mother to the library! Here are some of the fun FREE things you can do with your mother this month.  No registration or library card is needed for any programs or events.

1. Bring your mother to the library to get free seeds or a spice packet in May.  Does your mother like to garden? The Miller Branch Library will be handing out a variety of flower and vegetable seeds this month with their Seed Catalog program.  If she is more of a foodie or culinary artist, pick up our Season Ticket Kit, featuring Gullah Seasoning, at the Main Library this month.  Both are available beginning May 1 – supplies are limited, so stop by early to get yours.
2. The Friends of the Library “Mostly Fiction” Used Book Sale would be a fun thing to do with your mom this month.  The sale will be on Saturday, May 4, from 10 AM – 5 PM at the Main Library.  If you have other plans that day, Sunday, May 5, from 1 – 5 PM will feature half-price books! All proceeds from the sale are used to buy library materials and fund library special events and projects. 
3. What do you know about your family history?  Make a date with your mom to learn together at our Exploring Your Family History: Census Records class on Tuesday, May 7, at 5:30 PM at the Main Library. 
4. If your mom is the creative type, we are offering a variety of crafting programs in May.  Watercolor on the Weekend on Saturday, May 18, at 10:30 AM at the Windsor Drive Branch will focus on small-format landscapes.  Or come and make a whimsical “Meow Maid” on Thursday, May 23, from 6 – 7 PM at the Main Library.  We will also be painting candles at our monthly “Crafty Corner” program on Thursday, May 30, at 2 PM at the Miller Branch. 
5. Is your mom a reader?  Our Book Lover’s Club on Thursday, May 16, at 10 AM at the Main Library might be a nice thing for you to do together.  For this book club, there is no specific title you need to read.  Come and share a title or two you have read recently with this casual club.
6. How about a latte and a poem or song?  Dewey’s Café at the Main Library features Open Mic Night, also on Thursday May 16, from 5:30 – 7 PM.  Showcase your talent, or just come out to listen and enjoy.
7. The popular Bingo for Books (for adults) will be on Tuesday, May 28, from 6 – 7 PM at the Main Library.  Come together, and see who wins!  There will be book prizes for all the winners.
8. If your mom does not live close by, you can stop by the Dallas Branch Library May 1 – 11 and make a handmade Mother’s Day card for her.  This activity is available for all ages during all open hours.
9. You could always just bring your mom to the library to check out books or other materials on Mother’s Day, Sunday, May 12.  The Main Library is open from 1 – 5 PM every Sunday! 

There is always a lot going on at the library, and we invite you to bring your mother, family, or friends any time.  For more information on the Fort Smith Public Library’s free programs, services, and events, visit our website.