May is Mental Health Awareness Month - a time to slow down, check in with ourselves and each other, and create space for conversations that don't always come easily. From approachable nonfiction that explains anxiety, stress and emotions, to powerful fiction that reflects real struggles through relatable characters, books can be a quiet companion offering reassurance, perspective, and sometimes just the comfort of being seen. Curated by Ashley Lee. Being a Teen can be tough but you don't need to struggle alone, for free confidential mental health support: -Dial 988 for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline or go online to 988lifeline.org -Trevor Project 866-488-7386 or go online to TrevorChat.org
Category: Nonfiction
Louisiana Truths
These books will take you through the colorful history of this state we call our home. Take a look behind the moss curtain and learn the truths of the land and its people. Curated by Tabor Millien.
Memoirs of Cultural Icons
You've likely come across these names before - maybe you recognize a face, a voice, or a body of work, or you've simply seen their names everywhere. But how well do you really know their stories? Now you can. Curated by Tabor Millien.
Artโs the Thing
Looking to spark creativity in your young readers? Books about art are a wonderful way to introduce children to famous artists and the joy of self expression. From playful board books about mixing colors to beautifully illustrated stories inspired by great masterpieces, art-themed books invite children to see the world a little differently. Curated by Bonitaย Bignar.ย
Go for the Gold! Winter Olympics Books for Kids
Bundle up and get ready for the Winter Olympics. Explore the Olympics with a mix of fiction and nonfiction for young readers. From real Olympic sports to imaginative snowy stories, these books bring the Games to life on every page. Curated by Katie Rivers.
New Non-Fiction Audiobooks on Cloudlibrary
Fresh non-fiction audiobooks have landed on Cloudlibrary! From eye-opening memoirs to fascinating history and big-idea science, these new listens are perfect for learning on the go. Plug in, press play, and let a great true story keep you company. Curated by Katie Rivers.
If You Like K-Pop Demon Hunters…
You're going to be golden with these reads. K-Pop Demon Hunters blends high-energy pop stardom, supernatural danger, friendship, and action into a story that's just as fun as it is fierce. If you loved the mix of music, monsters, and strong characters, here are some perfect read alikes. Curated by Katie Rivers.
Nonfiction Graphic Novels
These graphic novels explore nonfiction topics such as love, family, immigration, and history with gorgeous illustrations. Curated by Ashley Lee.
Ascension Parish Library Favorites
With 2025 coming to a close soon we asked around for our staff member's favorite books they read this year. Here's a few of their picks, what's yours?
Masters of Literature
From the beginning, literature has been a way for humanity to reflect on itself. Reading a beautifully written book with relatable characters can teach you things you didn't know about yourself and life in general. These biographies give you a closer look at the masters of literature who shaped the way we write and interpret novels. Curated by Tabor Millien.
