Harry Potter Discussion Group, Friday Night Cartoons, Game of Thrones Pre-Season Party....no, these are not some of the latest teen programs. These programs are part of the growing trend of nerdy programs specifically geared towards adults at some of our member libraries. Many libraries offer educational adult programs, or creative activities such as knitting or sewing. However, some are hosting programs that are pure fun for younger adults.
The Adriance Memorial Library hosted an event called Friday Night Cartoons where they invited patrons over 18 to come to the library after-hours to watch classic 90s cartoons. Patrons were encouraged to bring pillows and blankets, and refreshments were served including Gushers, Fruit Roll Ups, Sunny D, and Hi-C. The Adriance Memorial Library has more 90s themed events planned such as a 90s themed Escape Room.
The Kinderhook Memorial Library held a First Contact Day event where they celebrated all things Star Trek. Matt Pavloff, the Teen Librarian said, "Whether they're long-time fans or new to the franchise, patrons could enjoy Trek-themed food (Jellied Plomeek, Romulan "ale") and games, like the Phaser-blast Challenge and Tribble Toss. Sadly, we didn't have any patrons boldly go for Captain Kirk's Karaoke...maybe next year!" This program was open to families and is a
great example of how libraries can create programs that are appealing to both adults with children, as well as younger adults.
(above) A family enjoys the First Contact Day Event.
The Kent Public Library has a Harry Potter (HP) Adult Discussion Group that meets monthly and is for adults only. Charlotte Victoria Marriott, the programmer at the Kent Public Library says that the group "started because adult patrons saw our advertisements for a children's HP book club and so many adults expressed interest in it. Discussions usually are about a selection of articles we read over the past month, often from Pottermore, though there have been other sources as well. We read and discussed Cursed Child over the winter, and I met several members at a local movie theater to see The Crimes of Grindelwald together in December."
The Kent Public Library also held a Game of Thrones Pre-Season Party in April. Patrons could play a trivia game, eat "gruesome Ned Stark cake pops", make a bookmark, make buttons that say "Hardcore Thronies Unite at Kent Public Library," and could take selfies on an Iron Throne (pictured above). The program was advertised as "More fun than a Westerosi wedding, guaranteed!" In addition to this program, the Kent Public Library has an ongoing Game of Thrones Bingo program, as well as a Game of Thrones Support Group.