The Singing River Genealogy-Local History Library at Pascagoula was the host of “Safeguarding Stories for Families” at two free workshops in April and May. They partnered with Mississippi Digital Library who assisted in the events.

The Genealogy library invited the public to bring in family keepsakes, old family documents, family memorabilia, artifacts, and photos which may be added to local history collections. The library hosted the free day-long event at the Pascagoula Public Library and a second event at the Lucedale-George County Public Library. Local residents were encouraged to bring area photographs, family documents, and keepsake items to the libraries to have them listed, scanned, or photographed at no charge. All patrons participating received a CD of their digital images.

Genealogy Library manager and archivist Amanda Brooks stated, “I consider Safeguarding Stories to be one of the most important programs Singing River has offered up till this point. Our mission as a cultural institution is uncertain if we cannot partner with our community and assist them in preserving their own history. Providing a space for our patrons to take an active role in saving their history, especially in such a high-risk disaster area, speaks to what we as a community entity are all about. The library is planning to continue the events in the future.” For more information about the events, contact the library archivist at 228-769-3078. 

The Singing River Genealogy-Local History Library is located on the second floor of the Pascagoula library located at 3214 Pascagoula Street. For more information about the library, visit the website at www.jgrls.org, Facebook @SingingRiverLibrary or @JacksonGeorgeLibrary.

Photo courtesy of Jackson-George Regional Library System

Submitted by

Rex Bridges

Public Relations & Marketing Manager

Jackson-George Regional Library System