Library Week Events, and Fan★Fest Returns!

Big Buzz Blog - April 2026

Did you know it’s National Library Week? This week is filled with fun activities and celebrations at the various library locations. Celebrations won’t end on Friday, though. This week will be capped off with the return of FAN★FEST!

- Information courtesy of Hancock County Library System

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Library Week, April 20–25, 2026, is a time to celebrate the ways libraries bring people together, spark imagination, contribute to the overall quality of life in communities, and support lifelong learning. This year’s theme is “Find Your Joy.”
 
Mychal Threets, award-winning librarian, author, and the new host of the children’s program “Reading Rainbow,” will serve as honorary chairperson, promoting the American Library Association’s weeklong celebration of the important role that libraries play in our communities.
 

 
John Brdecka, HCLS executive director, reminds us that libraries offer everything from printed and digital books to 3-D printing, serving students doing research to adults utilizing business services such as sending a fax, making copies, or accessing free LinkedIn learning programs. “We provide services to people seeking jobs to those investigating family genealogy. Our libraries are essential to thriving communities.”
 
Locally, the Hancock County Library System invites area residents to join the celebration of its five community branches in Bay St. Louis, Diamondhead, Kiln, Pearlington, and Waveland through special themes and daily programs that tie into the national spotlight.
 

 
Thursday, April 23 is “Take Action for Libraries Day” offering ways to rally communities and advocates to support their local libraries. It is also “Jersey Day,” featuring your favorite team jersey. Friday, April 24 wraps up with a fun theme of “Cowboys and Cowgirls,” and prizes will be awarded.
 
 
On Sunday, April 26, Hancock County’s annual version of Comic-Con® comes to the Bay St. Louis Community Center. Doors open at 10 am, and the fun continues until 5 pm.
 

 
Special guests and presenters will be on hand all day. Talented local artist, musician, and educator Steven Harper will conduct a workshop on comic book development, including character design, storyboarding, artwork, and publishing to guide those interested in creating an original comic book. Brie Mayfield and Coastal Creations will offer facepainting for all ages. The Red Dragon Inn group “with Brandon & Mitch” will chart a demo in heroic fantasy gameplay, while writer and storyteller Walter James spins his unorthodox tales from “The Mosquito Haters Club.” Festival goers can also get an insider’s view with podcast host Sunset Slaughter, who is scheduled to deliver tales and tea during a live audience recording.
 
FAN★FEST will also have a dedicated gaming room equipped with some of the latest and most popular high-tech and AI games for those interested in seeing what’s new in state-of-the-art video games. The HCLS 360-degree video camera will also be on display during the event.
 
Another FAN★FEST crowd favorite is the annual COSPLAY costume exhibition and contest showcasing innovative, original, classic, and custom-designed attire, including plenty of the fans’ favorite superheroes. People are encouraged to come dressed and join the all-ages cosplay exhibition, fashion show, and judging, where contestants compete in Child, Teen, Adult, or Group categories. Space is limited; participants can sign up at the event or register online in advance.
 
For artists and art lovers, FAN★FEST includes an annual art contest. Details are online with entries open to teen and adult residents of Hancock County and library cardholders ages 12 years & older.
 
FAN★FEST is made possible through support from the Library Foundation of Hancock County and business sponsors from a community of creators, fans, and dedicated volunteers. Persons interested in volunteer opportunities at the event should contact the Bay St. Louis Library at (228) 467-5282. Volunteers must be 14 years or older. Opportunities are available for Saturday, April 25, and Sunday, April 26.
 
For specifics on library locations and other upcoming events, visit the library’s website and event calendar: https://hcls.librarycalendar.com/events/upcoming

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