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Haunted library event set in Selbyville Oct. 31

October 12, 2017

Spook will be in the air at the Selbyville Public Library for the 15th Annual Haunted Library attraction from 6 to 8 p.m., Tuesday, Oct. 31.

From books to boos, Library Director Kelly Kline and her staff are preparing to turn aisles of literature into a freaky festival of screams in their walk-through haunted house. "You wouldn't recognize this place," said Kline. "Each year we strive to make it bigger and better than the last, and it's always a success."

Many of the library employees participate, but the community gets involved as well. All in all, it will take more than 50 volunteers to pull off. Kline credits Shelly Purnell, youth services coordinator, who brings much of it together. "This is really her event. She works hard to be sure that everything comes together, and it's a huge feat," said Kline. Purnell also brings in Josh Vickers, who hand-makes a multitude of props and brings his vision each year to top the last.

"But we always look for new volunteers for this type of event," said Kline. It is an especially good fit for those 13 and older with theater backgrounds, who commonly get involved in the performance aspect of the Haunted Library. For families, this is an opportunity to come and enjoy great seasonal entertainment at no cost.

The library will close be closed Monday, Oct. 30, as staff and volunteers work furiously to get all the decorations into place. When the doors open at 6 p.m. on Halloween, it will be a sight to behold. From traditional ghosts and goblins to the more Selbyville-centric John G. Townsend Jr. specter, one never knows what might be lurking in the old library building. Kline says the original building really lends itself to the event with its staircases and narrow openings and, of course, the spooky sensations that come with the Halloween season.

Last year, the Haunted Library saw more than 375 people come through the doors. Kline and her staff are hoping to top that number this year, and of course, scare the pants off anyone who shows up. "To me, the attraction is really scary at some points, but we see all ages coming through, as scary is different for everyone," she said. Kline recommends the Haunted Library for those ages 7 and up, but no one will be turned away.

For more information, go to selbyvillelibrary.org.

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