FIVE THINGS TO KNOW TODAY 5/15: Porchfest is Coming | Black & Blues and Bob Slate’s Closing | See 'Edgar Allan Poe'

Calling all musicians, the Somerville Arts Council has set a date for its newest and very cool idea: Porchfest. They will hold the first citywide Somerville on Saturday May 21. Musicians of all ages and types will play on their porches (or friends or neighbor’s porches) and audiences can roam from show to free and breezy show. To sign up to perform, send in your registration by May 1. Signup info . Full story on here.

Closings: Black & Blues and Bob Slate Stationer’s:

clothing boutique of Davis Square e-mailed customers last week that it will close by the end of the month, according to a post on DavisSquareLiveJournal. Bob Slate Stationer in Porter Square will also be closing in March if a last minute buyer is not found, reports CambridgeDay.com. Both will be missed.

Edgar Allan Poe Night Offers Valentine’s Day Antidote:

The invite puts it simply: “Celebrate the end of Valentine's Day — by burying it alive!” Tonight, at the Elizabeth Peabody House (7 p.m.) literary historian Rob Velella portrays Edgar Allan Poe in a one-man performance. Soothe your dark heart as he reads “the works that best display that thin line between love and death—including ‘Annabel Lee’ and ‘The Raven.’” Details .

Help the library turn a new page:

The library wants to hear from you. Take the quick 10-question survey on the library website to voice your opinion on how to improve library services, collections and facilities.

It’s beer and mussels night at Orleans:

Feeling Belgian today? Then head to Orleans. Every Tuesday the kitchen at Orleans whips up three steamed mussel specials (usually $12.95) and serves them with a choice of Belgian beers. Add a side of frites and you’re halfway to Brussels. Restaurant info .

Looking for more things to do in Somerville?

Be sure to check our Events Calendar here.