St. Mary Parish Library Programming
St. Mary Parish Library supports its mission to enrich the lives and communities that we serve through free and equitable access to knowledge, literacy, resources, and experiences that strengthen our community. Our focus is on programs that:
- Enhance opportunities for lifelong learning and continuing education
- Promote literacy, educational success, and community engagement
- Foster engagement with community diversity through entertainment and skill-building
- Introduce patrons to library resources
- Support creativity, curiosity, and exploration across various mediums
- Contribute to overall community development
Types of Programming
The St. Mary Parish Library offers a diverse array of programs at all locations, designed for individuals of every age, including babies, toddlers, children, teens, and adults. While certain programs may be tailored to specific age groups, participation is open to all, and everyone is encouraged to participate.
Types of Library Programs:
Storytimes: Engaging sessions for young children that feature interactive readings of picture books, often accompanied by songs and activities.
Teen Programs: Events specifically designed for teenagers, including gaming tournaments, book discussions, and creative workshops.
Adult Book Clubs: Regular meetings where participants engage in discussions about a selected book.
Movie Screenings: Public film showings, occasionally paired with themed activities.
General Interest Programs: Activities suitable for all ages, such as family game nights, celebrations, and clubs.
Programming Criteria
The Library’s staff utilize the following criteria when selecting program topics, speakers, and related resources:
- Addresses community needs and interests
- Availability of space for the program
- Quality of the presentation
- Budget considerations
- Connection to other community programs, exhibitions, or events
- Relevance to the Library’s collections, resources, exhibits, and programs
Program Proposal
- All library programs are free and accessible to the public.
- Programs must be high quality, professional, and adhere to library policies.
- Selection is based on community relevance, appeal, and suitability for a general audience, with presenters chosen for expertise and experience.
- Attendance can vary; no minimum is required for a program to occur.
- Programs may be canceled for reasons such as severe weather, presenter absence, or low registration, and are not automatically rescheduled.
Library programs are planned several months in advance. Program proposal submissions are welcomed and evaluated on an ongoing basis and all proposals are retained for potential future consideration.
If your proposal aligns with our programming needs, schedule, and budget, the programming department will contact you.
If you are interested in proposing a program, please complete the form below.
Registration
Due to limited space and strong interest, some events require registration. Our monthly newsletter and online event calendar will indicate whether registration is required. If you’re interested in attending, please choose the event and kindly RSVP with the number of participants. You will receive an email with your event ‘tickets’ to confirm your reservation.
Photography
St. Mary Parish Library captures photographs during events, story times, and workshops, which may be featured in the newsletter or shared on social media platforms. If you would prefer to not be photographed while attending a library program, please inform a staff member.
Camps, Centers and Large Groups
Summer camps, daycares, and other large groups please contact your local branch to inquire about attending a program or tour for your group.
Contact
Rachel Dominguez
Adult Services Coordinator
Jordan Thomassie
Youth Services & Performance Coordinator
For all inquiries, please fill out the proposal form or email programming@stmaryparishlibrary.org.
Programming Department
521 Catherine St.
Patterson, LA 70392
(985)-395-2777
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