May is Mental Health Month at FM Library

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and this year’s theme, “More Good Days, Together,” reminds us that small moments of connection can make a big difference. The Fort Madison Public Library is more than a place for books—it’s a welcoming space where community, learning, and support come together. Whether you’re looking for a quiet place to recharge or a chance to connect with others, we’re here for you.
We offer a variety of resources to support mental wellness, including books, audiobooks, and digital materials on topics like stress management, mindfulness, and self-care. If you’re not sure where to start, our staff is always happy to help you find materials that fit your needs. You can also explore free online resources through our website, available anytime from home.
Connection is a key part of “more good days,” and the library hosts programs designed to bring people together. For adults, we have a monthly book club as well as a Thursday afternoon crafting group.  Kids and teens can explore their creativity through Minecraft every Monday and on Wednesdays, we have story time for pre-school age kids in the morning and after school activities for older kids on select days.  Seniors can keep their bodies active and enjoy socializing Monday, Tuesday and Thursday mornings at 10am by participating in Geri-Fit.  Alternatively, enjoy being by yourself around other people and read a book or enjoy a magazine in one of our comfy chairs with a great view through the south windows.  These gatherings offer opportunities to meet others, share experiences, and build a sense of belonging. Even a simple conversation or shared activity can brighten your day.
This month, we encourage everyone to take a moment for themselves and for each other. Stop by the library, join a program, or pick up something new to read. Together, we can create more good days—one connection at a time.
Summer Reading 2026: Plant a Seed, Read!
Summer is just around the corner and, once school is out, summer reading starts at the library.  In addition to reading prizes for all ages, we also have activities planned for everyone.  Weekly programs for kids include crafts, activities and Minecraft.  Teens will have opportunities to explore crafts and new recipes.  Adults will also have crafting opportunities and a chance to learn about the Founding Mothers as we celebrate the 250th anniversary of our country.  We also have a couple of opportunities for games for everyone!  Finally, we will have an escape room at the end of June.  The full schedule of events will be posted on the library website, or available to pick up at the library after May 13.
Some places to start to learn more about mental health matters:
1. More or Less Maddy: A Novel by Lisa Genova (F/PB GEN
2. Visitations by Corey Egbert (YA GN EGB)
3 The Disengaged Teen: Helping Kids Learn Better, Feel Better and Live Better by Jenny Anderson (373.1801 AND)
4. Eat Better, Sleep Better: 75 Recipes and a 28-Day Meal Plan by Marie-Pierr St-Onge (641.5 STO)
5. You Are Not Alone for Parents and Caregivers: The NAMI Guide by Christine M. Crawford (155.4 CRA)
6. Real Self-Care: A Transformative Program for Redefining Wellness (crystals, cleanses, and bubble baths not included) by Pooja Lakshmin (631 LAK)

7. You Are Not Alone: The NAMI Guide to Navigating Mental Health by Ken Duckworth (158.1 DUC)
8. Are U OK?  A Guide to Caring For Your Mental Health by Kati Morton (362.2 MOR)
9. Mental Health by Michelle Dakota Beck (J 362.196 BEC)
10. Life Inside My Mind: 31 Authors Share Their Personal Struggles edited by Jessica Burkhart (YA 616.89 LIF)

Upcoming Events at the Fort Madison Public Library –
The Library will be closed on May 25 for the Memorial Day Holiday
Summer Reading Registration begins May 26.  Kick-off Summer Reading activities with Tie-Day on Wednesday June 3, beginning at 1pm.  Please bring your own item to dye.  100% cotton, pre-washed fabric works best.  Please don’t bring anything larger than a t-shirt and no sweatshirt or terry cloth material, please.
Pre-School/Toddler Story Hour –Wednesday mornings at 10:30.
Minecraft –3:30-5:00 pm Mondays for all ages.
Once Upon a Wednesday – May 13 from 3:30-5:30pm.  Kids’ afterschool activities and crafts.
Thursday Crafternoon – 3:00-5:00 pm every Thursday.  This group works on larger projects that will take several weeks so plan to come several times if you want to create something.
Geri-Fit – Senior exercise class Monday, Tuesday and Thursday mornings beginning at 10:30.  Newcomers always welcome.  Though the exercises are targeted toward older adults, there are no age restrictions for this program.  No class on May 25.
All Booked Up! - The library's book discussion group meets on the first Thursday of the month at 1:30 p.m.  On Thursday, May 7, "Dreamers of the Day” by Mary Doria Russell.  June’s book will be “The Furious Hours” by Casey Cep.