A Mom’s Guide to Local Libraries in East Central Mississippi

Written By Erin Brown

*THIS GUIDE IS CURRENTLY BEING GENERATED/REVAMPED

 1. Meridian-Lauderdale Public Library (Meridian, Lauderdale County)

Why Moms Love It:

  • Offers children’s storytimes, summer reading programs, and craft workshops.

  • Homework help centers with free Wi‑Fi and quiet study spaces.

  • Engaging seasonal events—like holiday puppet shows and family movie nights.

Great For: Ages 0–12
Bonus: Cozy children’s area with built-in reading nooks and plenty of picture books.

 2. Philadelphia-Neshoba County Library (Philadelphia, Neshoba County)

Why Moms Love It:

  • Regular activities such as toddler storytime, after-school clubs, and even teen makerspaces.

  • Free access to computers, educational databases, and literacy apps.

  • Hosts “parent-and-me” story-and-play sessions, plus crafts tied to library themes.

Great For: Ages 2–16
Bonus: Calendar often includes STEM-focused events (like robotics & coding).

 3. Newton County Library (Decatur, Newton County)

Why Moms Love It:

  • Monthly themed storytimes with crafts and snacks.

  • Reading logs with incentives—kids earn small prizes or certificates for reaching goals.

  • Parent-led book clubs and literacy workshops for elementary parents.

Great For: Ages 3–10
Bonus: Friendly, small-town atmosphere—staff know each child and can recommend personalized reads.

 4. Scott County Library – Thomas E. Bresnan Branch (Forest, Scott County)

Why Moms Love It:

  • Weekly children’s story sessions and family craft days.

  • Seasonal programs, including gardening tips, nature stories, and local history events.

  • Extensive juvenile fiction and nonfiction collections with helpful staff picks.

Great For: Ages 4–12
Bonus: Large patio with picnic tables—stop for an outdoor snack after browsing books.

5. Clarke County Library (Quitman, Clarke County)

Why Moms Love It:

  • Storytime sessions with interactive songs, puppets, and fingerplays.

  • Summer reading challenges accompanied by kid-friendly events and prizes.

  • Folk storyteller visits and local heritage reading hours.

Great For: Ages 3–12
Bonus: Provides school support via reading help and study guides for local students.


Erin Brown

Erin Brown, mom of two girls [with a baby on the way] met her husband, Richie, at Mississippi State University. With degrees in journalism and sports marketing, she worked in marketing and design before shifting her focus to family and entrepreneurship. After Richie’s NFL career ended, they returned to his hometown of Long Beach, where they now run Beacon Contracting along with her ventures, The Mississippi Mom and FRAME – Branding Agency. Erin’s passion is encouraging women through faith, family, and community. She reminds moms: “Never underestimate the impact of grace in your parenting. The more you mirror Christ, the more lasting your legacy will be.”