This summer’s Storytime on the Side Porch series celebrates 100 years of the Welty House & Garden on Pinehurst Street. Each Thursday in June at 3 p.m., we’ll explore a different theme inspired by the home, the neighborhood, and the natural world—through picture books, hands-on fun, and special guests from our community.
Designed especially for kids in grades K–5 and their caregivers, this free program takes place in the Welty Garden and includes storytime, activities, and time to explore. Come to one or come to all—no registration required. Just bring your curiosity and a sense of wonder.
📚 Weekly Themes & Books
June 5 – Building a House
Let’s imagine what it takes to build a house—and what makes a home. We’ll share stories about dream houses, architecture, and the home Eudora Welty knew and loved.
Books include Built Together, If I Built a House, and more
June 12 – The Number “100”
We’re celebrating the number 100—bugs, peas, and all! This week features a visit from Dalton Knight of the Mississippi Museum of Natural Science, who will bring insect specimens and share stories from the world of conservation.
Books include 1-2-3 Peas and 100 Bugs!
Guest Reader: Dalton Knight, Bug Enthusiast and Conservation Educator
June 19 – Building a Garden
How do gardens grow? Together we’ll explore compost, worms, and all the small things that help make gardens bloom. Our guest from Wurmworks will share about composting and the wonderful world beneath our feet.
Books include How to Say Hello to a Worm and E-I-E-I-O
Guest Reader: Matt Castille, Wurmworks
June 26 – Seeds We Share: Deep Roots and New Shoots
In our final week, we’ll read stories about gardens that grow across generations—where families, neighbors, and friends all have a hand in planting something lasting.
Books include The Garden We Share, The Forever Garden, and more
Guest Reader: Lauren Rhoades, author and Director of Grants at the Mississippi Arts Commission
