Nine crimes filled the Major Offense Log (MOL) for Thursday (3.31). The New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) are investigating felonies including a homicide, a robbed cabbie, a stickup at Maple Street Books, and several muggings.

By Nathan Martin, Room 220

As Americans read fewer and fewer books and feel generally more isolated in the technological age, there has emerged a response among lovers of literature that seems to address both issues—mass public book readings that engage attendees both literarily and socially.

Tonight, John Besh is at Maple Street Book Shop, there's a Holiday Hootennany with Spencer Bohren at Snug Harbor, and more. On this day in history: On December 19, 1837 the New Orleans city council banned masked balls and parades due to violence. The prohibition lasted for 20 years. Click through for more art, music, and lit after hours this Thursday. 

from Press Street's Room 220

Poet and native New Orleanian Brenda Marie Osbey will read from History and Other Poems, her newest collection, at 6 p.m. on Thursday, June 27, at the Uptown location of Maple Street Book Shop (7529 Maple St.). She will be on hand after the reading to sign copies of her book.

Tonight, get literary on Maple Street, enjoy some local blues on Rampart, or see some Reggae at House of Blues. On this day in 1827, New Orleans kicked off its first Mardi Gras. Now, more hump day happenings.