Summer is officially here, and that means the arrival of so many things — sandhill crane colts, summer reading programs, fun and free activities, and we can’t forget the tourists! For details on what’s coming up this week, check out these Best Bets.

BEST FREE FILM SCREENING BET: Join the Homer Public Library for a special film screening of “Free For All: The Public Library” on Thursday, May 29 at 6 p.m.! This event is free to the public and held in partnership with Alaska Public Media. “Free For All: The Public Library” tells the story of the quiet revolutionaries who made a simple idea happen, from the pioneering women behind the Free Library Movement to today’s librarians who continue to serve communities in a time of closures and book bans. Celebrating public libraries as one of the most democratic institutions in America, the film highlights their vital role in ensuring that knowledge remains free and accessible to all. The runtime for this unrated film is 60 minutes. For more information, visit www.cityofhomer-ak.gov/library/film-screening-free-all-public-library. 500 Hazel Ave.

BEST OPEN MIC NIGHT BET: Pier One Theatre and Homer Council on the Arts invite to take the stage for an open mic night and potluck, celebrating Mary Epperson Day on May 30 from 6-8 p.m. Come share your talents! All ages are welcome. Learn more and RSVP online at homerart.org/event/mary-epperson-2025/. 3858 Homer Spit Road.

BEST LIBRARY LEVEL UP BET: The Homer Public Library’s annual summer reading program kicks off on Saturday, May 31 with several special events! Join storytime with Miss Cinda at 10:30 a.m. or see amazing card mysteries and a magic show with Magic Don at 1 p.m. and 3:30 p.m.! Amazing Card Mysteries is for elementary aged kids; registration is required. While you’re enjoying the events, sign up for HPL’s Summer Reading Challenge! For more information, visit the library’s website or call 907-235-3180. 500 Hazel Ave.

BEST CITIZEN SCIENCE BET: Sandhill crane colts will begin hatching the first week of June! “Fuzzball season” continues until close to the end of June as the later nesting pairs’ eggs hatch. Please keep your dogs on leashes and cats inside during this early and vulnerable time for crane colts and other young wildlife. Contact Kachemak Crane Watch with information about your nesting pair and their newly hatched colts. This important data helps KCW count the total number of colts in the area and track nesting success. Email reports to KCW at reports@cranewatch.org or call 907-235-6262. Please include the date of hatching, time, location, number of colts, mortalities and your contact information in case KCW needs to reach out for further details. For more information, contact Nina Faust at 907-235-6262.

BEST DONATIONS BET: Pier One Theatre is accepting donations through May 31 for their yard sale fundraiser, scheduled for June 7. Bring clean, working kitchen items, clothes, gadgets, small furniture, jewels, art and more to the trailer outside the Spit Theater and pick up a form for your records. For questions about donation delivery, call Cathy at 907-435-7768. 3858 Homer Spit Road.