Tickets are on sale now for the Literature and Libations at the Library fundraiser, an evening highlighted by music, wine and beer and hors d’oeuvres throughout the Charleston Public Library Friday, Aug. 19 from 6pm to 8pm.
“We want people to enjoy the library after hours,” said Mary Droste, president of the library’s Board of Trustees. “It’s a wonderful way to showcase the talent in Charleston and this beautiful facility.”
Moondogs, a classic rock band from Charleston, Yvonne Larson, and the EIU Jazz Quartet will provide a diverse selection of music throughout the evening in various spaces of the library.
Abby Haughee, one of the founding members of Moondogs, said the group is looking forward to playing at the library.
“It’s such a cool idea, getting people in the library listening to music,” Haughee said. “We do quite a few benefits a year to give back to the community, and the library is right up there.”
The idea was hatched more than a year ago by several trustees after the successful dinner gala in 2014 that celebrated the library’s 110th anniversary and honored former library director Sheryl Snyder.
“This will be just our second fundraiser,” Droste said. “The timing is perfect to start the school year off by inviting the community to enjoy an evening of entertainment and to raise money for the library.”
All funds raised that night will be used for library services and technology. A silent auction of items ranging from collector comics, home brew kits, a martini collection, coffees and Panther athletics will be set up at each music venue and wine/beer station. In addition, a book tree raffle will be available.
Larson, a mother of three, said she is a big fan of the library.
“As a lifelong resident I have watched the library change and grow,” she said. “It’s just a wonderful place to go. I am happy to be a part of this evening.”
“We hope everyone who uses and supports the library will come enjoy an evening of wonderful music, good food, some wine and fellowship,” Droste said.
PERFORMERS:
- Moondogs members: Abby Haughee, Joe McLean, Jay Ferguson, Karen Hart, Al Phillips, Wendy Meyer, Bob St. Gemme and Laura St. Gemme. The group since October 2015 has performed a blend of roots, rock, and reggae to the area. It is considered of the area’s most popular cover bands.
- Vyonne Larson, a teacher in the Charleston School District, will be joined by friends on fiddle and guitar to perform folk songs selections from Ladies of Spoon River, selected and arranged by Elizabeth and Earl Halbe.
- The EIU Jazz Quartet is comprised of Willie Morris on tenor saxophone; Lucas Fain, piano; Tyler Seawood, bass; and Craig Buckner, drums. The group is led by Paul Johnston, professor of jazz studies and jazz piano at Eastern. Johnston has been at EIU since 2004, and is well known as a teacher, performer and composer.