Library hosting virtual story time, bird feeder craft project on Monday

The Forrest City Public Library is planning virtual events for next week.

On Monday, the library will host an online story time and craft, according to Sheila Gracey, the library’s children and youth services coordinator.

"It's bird themed," said Gracey, who will be reading “Are You My Mother” on the Forrest City Library's Facebook page. "Then, we will be making a bird feeder craft."

Gracey said crafting supplies may be picked up at the library on Thursday and Friday this week. "It is basically pipe cleaners, Cheerios and ribbons," she said, adding that she will be showing participants how to complete the craft on the library's Facebook page on Feb. 8.

Also at the library during February is a display of African American authors, many associated with the Delta, according to René Ward.

One book, “The Day I was Born,” by Joseph Perry, is a collection of photos and stories from the Delta from the 1960s until the 1990s, according to Ward.

"It's a very interesting book," said Ward. "It depicts the lifestyle

and obstacles people had. It's an interesting local story. That's what we want to feature this year, local artists, even Forrest Citians.”

One Forrest City author, H.P. Brown, will have a book titled “ELI: Evil Lies Inside” on display at the library. "The others are children’s books or religious titles," said Ward.

Also this month, the library’s free tax filing service is scheduled to begin on Feb. 12, according to director Arlisa Harris.

Harris said those interested in participating should call the library to schedule an appointment. "This program offers free tax preparation and filing for households making $57,000 or less," said Harris.

This year, due to Covid-19, taxes will be conducted in a dropoff manner and completed within three to five days.

"We will call or email you to schedule the final reviewing and filing," said Harris.

Spouses who file jointly will each have to be present at dropoff and identification, and other documents must be provided at time of drop-off, according to Harris.

On Feb. 15, the library will be closed in observance of Presidents’ Day. On Tuesday, Feb. 16, Legal Aid of Arkansas will be at the library from 9 a.m. until noon for appointments.

The library is also participating in the Arkansas State Library Book Club 2021.

This month, the club is reading "The Handmaid's Tale” by Margaret Atwood.

For more information on any of the library’s, events or services call the facility at 633-5646.