Library transforms into wizard academy

  • Published
  • By Hugh C. McBride
  • 31st Fighter Wing Public Affairs contributor
Aviano Air Base, Italy --  A few hours after the Aviano base library closed July 20, reference librarian Amber Collins performed a feat of wizardry that would have impressed even a certain British teenager with a lightning-bolt scar - she made the building disappear. 

Any "muggles" at Aviano's Area One after 8 p.m. didn't notice any changes, but the young wizards inside knew they weren't in a library anymore - for a few magical hours they were attending the world-famous Hogwarts Academy. 

As the clocked ticked toward the witching hour - and the release of "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows," by J.K. Rowling - a contingent of Potter enthusiasts celebrated the series's conclusion by undertaking their own course in wizardry studies. 

After taking turns beneath a "sorting hat," the participants were divided into five houses and sent to various crooks and crevices of the temporary academy.
 
Once officially enrolled and organized, the wizards made magic wands, created magical creatures, mixed potions, developed divination skills and even went on a scavenger hunt for, among other things, a golden snitch. 

The events culminated in a midnight drawing for the right to be the first person to check out "Deathly Hallows." 

The Potter gathering was part of the library's summerlong "You Never Know" program for youth ages 10 and older. 

In addition to promoting reading among community youth, the summer programs also included weekly arts and crafts afternoons and events in the Aviano Base Library that included the Potter event and the upcoming Mystery Night Aug. 10. 

Ms. Collins said the effort has proved to be successful at attracting youth to the library. She noted that more than 250 participants from ages four months to 18 years have taken part in activities. 

"We couldn't do this without our volunteers," Ms. Collins said. 

The volunteers helped decorate the library/academy, then donned costumes to teach classes, supervise activities, and clean up. 

Ms. Collins hopes the upcoming Mystery Night - and its opportunity for dramatic mini-stardom - will inspire a similar level of volunteer excellence.
 
"We need cast members [ideally teenagers] to participate in 'The Disappearance of Angela Day,' as well as volunteers to help set up and clean up," Ms. Collins said. "No experience is necessary - we'll be glad to have anyone who is willing to help." 

The library is open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sundays and down-days and is closed on U.S. holidays. 

For more library information or to volunteer, call Ext. 5389.