Residents across Fort Bend County will have a wide range of opportunities to celebrate culture, creativity, and wellness this May, as Fort Bend County Libraries rolls out dozens of free programs in honor of Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month and Mental Health Awareness Month.

The library system’s signature AAPI event, the Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Fest, will take place Saturday, May 9, from 10:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Fulshear Branch Library. The festival will feature a lineup of cultural performances and interactive experiences, including Polynesian storytelling, Ayurvedic cooking, a beginner Mahjong session, K-pop dance performances, and a traditional dragon and lion dance showcase. An all-day exhibit, “Filipino Mythology” by artist Royal Sumikat, will also be on display.

Library officials say the goal is to highlight the diverse traditions and cultural contributions of AAPI communities through engaging, family-friendly programming.

Beyond the festival, AAPI-themed events will be held throughout the month at multiple branches. These include craft workshops, cooking demonstrations, cultural performances, and educational talks designed for all ages. Highlights include:

• A discussion on Japanese war brides at George Memorial Library
• Indian classical dance instruction at Sugar Land Branch Library
• Polynesian storytelling performances at Cinco Ranch Branch Library
• Hands-on cultural crafts and activities at branches in Needville, Houston, and Missouri City

Teens and young adults can also participate in specialized programs such as K-pop craft sessions, manga zine creation, and sushi-making workshops, while families can explore “Passport to Asia” events and multicultural food experiences.

In addition to cultural programming, Fort Bend County Libraries is also recognizing Mental Health Awareness Month with a series of educational events focused on emotional well-being.

A key session, “Mental Health Awareness,” will be held May 8 at the George Memorial Library, offering guidance on recognizing signs of stress, anxiety, and depression, along with strategies for coping and support. The program is presented in partnership with Fort Bend County Behavioral Health Services.

At the First Colony Branch Library, two additional programs will address modern mental health challenges. Licensed counselor Kristen Carruth will lead a discussion on stress, anxiety, and burnout on May 16, followed by a documentary screening and discussion of The Anxious Generation on May 19, exploring the impact of smartphones and social media on youth mental health.

According to Mental Health America, nearly one in five U.S. adults experiences a diagnosable mental health condition each year, underscoring the importance of awareness and access to resources.

Library officials emphasize that all programs are free and open to the public, with some requiring advance registration due to limited space.

For a full calendar of events and registration details, residents can visit the Fort Bend County Libraries website or contact their local branch.

With a blend of cultural celebration and community wellness, this month’s programming reflects the library system’s broader mission: to educate, connect, and enrich the diverse communities it serves.