Wednesday, April 29

Beyond the Stacks: Special Collections

 



Beyond the Stacks: Exploring the Dynamic Role of Special Collections in Modern Libraries

Libraries are often seen as quiet spaces filled with books and silence. But today, modern libraries are changing. They are becoming lively community centers with many resources. One type of resource is special collections. These are unique and interesting collections you can find in some libraries. Let’s discover some of these special collections:

CAKE PAN COLLECTION

Have you ever needed a cake pan for a one-time baking project? Instead of buying a new one, you can borrow it from the Central Mississippi Regional Library System! Our cake pan collection includes many shapes and sizes, from simple round pans to fun character molds. This way, bakers of all ages and skills can try new ideas without the cost or clutter of owning many pans. Brandon Public Library houses this collection, and they are available upon request. You only need to put the item on hold!



EXERCISE EQUIPMENT

Our library also lends fitness and wellness items. These kits include yoga mats, resistance bands, dumbbells, and sometimes fitness DVDs. By lending exercise tools, libraries encourage people to live healthier lives. It’s a great way to stay active without expensive gym memberships. This makes the space more inclusive, so everyone can access fitness resources, no matter their financial situation! Pearl Public Library houses this collection and are available upon request. You will be asked to sign a waiver when checking out these kits, however. 

BOOK CLUB KITS

If you love joining a book club but don’t have many copies of a book, a library book club kit might be perfect for you. These kits usually include multiple copies of one book, discussion questions, and sometimes extra materials related to the book or its author. CMRLS supports community connections and help people discuss and share ideas. With these kits, it’s easier than ever to start or join a book club and enjoy stories together. Magee, Richland, and Pearl Public Libraries house these collections. 

STORY TIME KITS

Story time kits are great for teachers and daycare teachers who want fun and engaging reading activities for kids. They often include themed books, puppets, props, and activity guides to make Story Time exciting and interactive. By offering these kits, our libraries help children learn to read and love books from a young age. They are useful tools to help adults and children play, learn, and have fun together, making reading a joyful experience. Pearl Public Library houses the main collection with some in other branches. 



Libraries are more than just places to find books. They are lively hubs for community life, offering many kinds of resources. Collections like cake pans, exercise equipment, book club kits, and Story Time kits show how libraries are evolving. They serve their communities in new and inclusive ways. Whether you want to bake a special cake, start your fitness journey, host a book club, or enjoy Story Time—CMRLS might just have the perfect collection for YOU. Put one on hold today!

Friday, April 3

CMRLS Library Crawl & National Library Week



 April is here, and that means it’s time to celebrate  National Library Month in a BIG way! This year, the Central Mississippi Regional Library System (CMRLS) is thrilled to introduce something brand new, exciting, and adventure-filled…

The FIRST-EVER CMRLS Library Crawl!



Get ready to hit the road and explore 20 libraries across Central Mississippi in a fun, interactive way. Whether you’re a lifelong library lover or just looking for a new adventure, the Library Crawl is your chance to discover everything your local libraries have to offer—programs, resources, spaces, and communities!

How does it work?

  • Visit a CMRLS library and pick up a passport 
  • Get your passport stamped for each library you visit.
  • Turn in your passport by May 1
Each library has something unique waiting for you—storytimes, teen programs, makerspaces, cozy reading nooks, and more. The more libraries you visit, the more you’ll discover!

Plan your route and find participating locations here: https://cmrls.lib.ms.us/cmrlsbranches/




Celebrate National Library Week (April 19-25, 2026)

National Library Week is the perfect time to jump into the Library Crawl—and celebrate everything libraries mean to our communities. Here’s what each day highlights and how YOU can join the fun:

Monday, April 20 – Right to Read Day

Celebrate your freedom to read whatever you choose!

How to celebrate:

  • Check out a book from a new genre
  • Visit a different library on your crawl
  • Share your favorite book with a friend

Tuesday, April 21 – National Library Workers Day

A day to recognize the amazing staff who keep libraries running!

How to celebrate:

  • Say thank you to a librarian
  • Leave a positive comment or review
  • Tag your library on social media with #cmrls

Wednesday, April 22 – National Library Outreach Day

Libraries go beyond their walls to serve the community!

How to celebrate:

  • Attend a program or outreach event
  • Bring a friend along to the library
  • Learn about digital resources like eBooks or streaming services

Thursday, April 23 – Take Action for Libraries Day

Show your support and advocate for libraries!

How to celebrate:

  • Sign up for a library card
  • Share why your library matters to you
  • Encourage others to join the Library Crawl

Make It an Adventure!

Turn your Library Crawl into a road trip with family or friends. Snap photos, explore new towns, and make memories along the way. You might just find your new favorite library!

This is more than just visiting libraries—it’s about celebrating community, discovery, and the joy of learning. Whether you visit one library or all twenty, you’re part of something special.

So what are you waiting for?
Grab your passport, start exploring, and celebrate National Library Month with us!

Visit your nearest CMRLS branch to get started today!