The Margaret Reed Crosby Memorial Library will be filled with gingerbread structures and performing teenagers next week.

The library will host a youth open mic night on Monday Nov. 18 from 5 to 7 p.m. Teens and kids who like to sing, play music, share writing, dance or act out skits can perform in front of an audience. Performers must be younger than 19. The event is free and open to the public and will include refreshments.

The event was requested by the library’s teen volunteer group, said children’s librarian Megan Miller.

“Sometimes the reason behind an event is as simple as somebody asked for it. If we get enough people requesting a type of program, we try to hold one,” Miller said.

The event is a continuation of the library’s family fun nights, which are typically held on a Tuesday near the end of the month.

Miller encourages performers to call the library at 601-798-5081 or visit the library to sign up ahead of time, but participants can also sign up the day of the event.

The library will also be the location of a Live Gingerbread Challenge and Contest on Sunday Nov. 17 at 2 p.m., hosted by the Friends of the Margaret Reed Crosby Memorial Library. Contestants can enter an edible structure constructed with a kit or via an original gingerbread design. Participants can work independently or make a gingerbread house as a family project, Miller said. The contest is free to enter and open to the public. Contestants can visit the library or call to sign up, Miller said.

The event will also feature a live gingerbread challenge featuring celebrity guests, who include Picayune Main Street Director Reba Beebe, Chancery Clerk Melinda Bowman, Library Director Carol Phares, Dr. Walter Gipson, Logan’s owner Dewayne Frierson and pastor Joseph Walton.

For more information on the gingerbread contest contact Kathy Younes at khomeschool@hotmail.com or visit the Friends of the Library Facebook page.