With under a month left until the start of the Downtown Elizabethton Farmer’s Market season, residents are invited to get an early look at what’s in store.

Maryann Owen, Adults Services Coordinator with the Elizabethton/Carter County Public Library, announced Friday that the facility will host the “Tales & Tasting” event on Monday, May 14, from 4 to 6 p.m. at the public library as a way to give a sneak peek of the market to promote literature in the area.

“Pending weather, we’re hoping to have it outside,” Owen explained at the event. “This was an idea that came from Donica Krebs (DEFM manager) to give the public a chance to see what different vendors will be set up during the farmer’s market.”

Capitalizing off last year’s inaugural season, the DEFM and public library will offer an opportunity to have a meet-and-greet with vendors and see what items will be sold during the market — which gets underway Tuesday, June 5, from 4 to 8 p.m. in the city parking lot of F Street beside the police and fire departments.

Monday’s event falls in line with what the market hopes to accomplish within the community. Donica Krebs, DEFM market manager, recently told the Elizabethton Star that the market wants to serve as a way to bring in extra tourism to the downtown area but to also encourage the public to support local vendors and encouraging healthier lifestyles.

While promoting what the vendors have to offer, the public will also have the chance to participate in a special meet-and-greet with local author and DEFM gluten-free goods vendor Susan Crowther. The vendor will share stories from her book “The No-Recipe Cookbook,” which encourages the public to think “local and seasonal” when it comes to cooking.

“Susan actually donated three books to the farmer’s market, but Monday’s event will focus heavy on the cookbook,” Owen said. “She’s such a talented author. People that stop by will be able to learn different recipes and see what she has to offer.”

Owen added the library has been able to promote the local author’s work in the past and that she’s been a delight to work with.

The DEFM will take place each Tuesday from June until September, pending any weather delays. Various food and artisan craft vendors, along with entertainment, will be on hand each Tuesday.

Until the launch date, the DEFM board is encouraging the public to stay active with the market via social media. Email defarmersmarket@gmail.com or visit the Downtown Elizabethton Farmer’s Market for more information. Additional events offered at the library can also be discovered by visiting their Facebook page or by stopping by their downtown location.