AMARILLO, TEXAS -- The Harry Potter book series is one of the most popular of all time, so it's only fitting the library be the place to celebrate the novels.
Harry potter fans of all ages are invited to the Amarillo Public Library's "An Evening at Hogwarts." After the huge success of the library's teen event, the Harry Potter Yule Ball, the Amarillo Public Library is offering another celebration of Harry Potter-and this time it's open to all ages on Friday, February 8, from 6:30pm to 8:30pm at the Downtown Library.
Amanda Hope Shelburne, assistant coordinator of Youth Services, said the Yule Ball was very popular, but many library patrons were disappointed it was for teens only. "We took so many phone calls and had so many posts on the Friends of the Library Facebook page," said Shelburne. "And it wasn't just younger kids-there were a lot of adults saying 'Hey, we love Harry Potter too!'"
An Evening at Hogwarts will feature wand making, a potions lab, Harry Potter themed refreshments, and many other Potter inspired activities.
"Harry Potter fans are welcome to come in costume," said Shelburne. "That just adds to the excitement. It's fun to show off your costume
and see what other Potter enthusiasts have dreamed up."
It's been more than five years since the release of the final book in the series, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, and nearly two years since the final film adaptation, but Shelburne said enthusiasm for the young wizard hasn't diminished. "There is a whole generation of kids who grew up reading Harry Potter. They love sharing his story, and they carried that enthusiasm to other books. I think it's safe to say there are a lot of kids, teens, and adults who are reading more today than they would have without the Harry Potter books."
For more information about An Evening at Hogwarts, call the Downtown Library Information Desk at 378-3089.
