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BY BROOKE CANTRELLE
SPECIAL TO L’OBSERVATEUR

February may be the shortest month of the year, but it packs a big punch. Black History Month, Heart Month, Mardi Gras, Valentine’s Day, and Leap Year 2024 are all reflected in this month’s programming at St. John the Baptist Parish Library. Did you know there’s another celebration that extends from Feb. 1 through 29? National Library Lovers’ Month was created to show appreciation for libraries as a safe space for reading, learning, professional development, and creative exploration. Show your love of libraries this month by using an online resource, encouraging friends to get a library card, or by attending one of the many programs we offer.

Instead of spending upwards of $50 per person at an arts and crafts bar, stop by the Library and enjoy free adult craft nights. February’s craft is a whimsical Easter hat centerpiece to display on your springtime table. Seats are available at 6 p.m. Feb. 15 in Reserve and Feb. 21 in Edgard. Reserve your spot online at stjohnlib.com or by calling 985-652-6857.

Teens and tweens will learn the art of hand sewing while crafting an adorable Leap Year frog plushie. Hand-sewing 101 will be held at 5 p.m. Feb. 26 in Edgard, Feb. 27 in LaPlace, Feb. 28 in Garyville, and at 3:30 p.m. Feb. 29 in Reserve.

Teens are also invited to join the Library staff for Anti-Valentine’s Day fun on Feb. 14. Create blackout love letters and sarcastic candy hearts at 3:30 p.m. in Reserve and at 6 p.m. in LaPlace, Garyville and Edgard.

The Library hosts STEAM activities every month, including the “Fun with Film” series that explores the science of cinematography through art. February’s theme is “forced perspective,” inspired by the giant woman TikTok trend. Fun with Film will be held at 6 p.m. Feb. 19 in LaPlace and Edgard, 3:30 p.m. Feb. 20 in Reserve, and at 6 p.m. Feb. 21 in Garyville.

Every month brings a new assortment of children’s crafts suited for various ages and skill levels. Upcoming programs include clay hearts, woven bowls, and Black History Month agamographs (a series of images that change at different angles). See the online calendar at stjohnlib.com or call 985-652-6857 for dates and times.

St. John the Baptist Parish Library recently expanded its literary offerings with a new book club. The Literary Lounge with Javalyn LeBlanc, aimed at adults, explores various genres and offers a welcoming space for patrons to share their ideas. This month, the group is reading “Fangirl Down” by Tessa Bailey. Grab a copy of the book or download it directly to your device using the Libby app and your library card. The next Literary Lounge meeting will be at 5 p.m. March 19 in Reserve.