Spooky season is upon us and we’re here for it! This October our calendar is packed with Halloween events for all ages. Join us for a month of creepy crafts, murder mysteries, and lots of haunting stories!

 

Recommendations

But first, set the spooky scene with recommended books and movies! Stream these horror and thriller films on Kanopy or choose a classic horror flick from this list. Did you know that we have a collection of Halloween books for kids? Browse early––they check out quickly! Visit our staff picks page to find lists full of recommendations. Including this list of nonfiction titles all about supernatural encounters. From “not too scary stories” to “guaranteed to keep you up at night” we’ve got something for everyone!

Teen Librarian, Sam, recommends “The Witch Boy” by Molly Ostertag.

In thirteen-year-old Aster's family, all the girls are raised to be witches, while boys grow up to be shapeshifters. Anyone who dares cross those lines is exiled. Unfortunately for Aster, he still hasn't shifted... and he's still fascinated by witchery, no matter how forbidden it might be. When a mysterious danger threatens the other boys, Aster knows he can help––as a witch and it will require all of his courage to save his family... and be truly himself.

It’s our Tween Reads Book Club pick for October!

 

 

Events for Kids

Learn how to cross stitch while creating a cute Halloween-themed bookmark on October 6 at the Ellettsville Branch! For ages 7–12. Sign up now!

Join us on October 27 for Black Cat Day at the Downtown Library! You'll meet Yorik, a black cat and education ambassador at the Monroe County Humane Association, and his handler Grace. Learn about the stigma and myths surrounding black cats. You'll have a chance to ask questions and read aloud to him too! For ages 5–12. Please register.

At Halloween Fun at the Ellettsville Branch on October 30, we'll enjoy a safe and not-so-scary Halloween-themed storytime and craft! Costumes are encouraged! Participants will receive a small bag of treats. Ages 3–6 and families. Register here.

 

Events for Teens Ages 12–19

Join us for an after-hours murder mystery party featuring all your favorite monsters from Universal lore! We'll provide the pizza and the clues, but it's up to you to solve the mystery. Register for the Ellettsville event on October 22 or the Downtown event on October 29.

Feeling crafty? We’re making no-sew Kawaii ghost plushies at the Teen Artist Club on October 11 (Downtown Library) and 18 (Ellettsville Branch). Then, at Frankentoys on October 26 (Downtown Library), we’ll take apart recycled toys and plushies then put them back together in exciting new ways! Drop in.

At Spooky D&D Club, adventure through fantastic realms, then leave when you want! These sessions of Dungeons and Dragons are designed to be short, fun, and evolving adventures that anyone can play. All skill levels are welcome! Drop in on October 6 at the Downtown Library or October 20 at the Ellettsville Branch. Or play virtually on our teen Discord server (ages 13–19) on October 13.

At Comics and Cookies on October 25, we'll discuss all things Abby Howard and other favorite horror graphic novels. Come for the cookies, stay to share your feels on the books! Events will occur simultaneously at both the Downtown Library and Ellettsville Branch.

Saturdays are the perfect day to hang out and watch movies with friends! Our October 16 flicks at the Downtown Library are still TBD, but we’re planning something spooky!

 

All-Ages Events

Join the Bloomington Flute Choir, led by musician Leighann Daihl Ragusa, for a selection of autumnal and Halloween-themed songs, paired with oral storytelling and rhymes for young children. All ages are welcome! Register here for the October 24 Downtown Library event.

On October 29, visit the Downtown Library from 5–8 PM as part of your Downtown Trick or Treat route! Stop by the Kirkwood entrance and get some Halloween goodies! All ages. Please note the rest of the Library will close at 6 PM.

A Halloween-time tradition for over 30 years, the Festival of Ghost Stories features haunting tales of ghosts and horror that tingle the spine! This year the Bloomington Storytellers Guild will present an evening of live storytelling beneath the stars at Bryan Park on October 29. In the meantime, enjoy this recording from 2020, filmed by Community Access Television Services!

Finally––on Halloween only, we’re casting a spooky spell to transform the Bookmobile into the Boo-Mobile! Visit any stop on Sunday, October 31, for a treat and an activity sheet. Normal browsing and holds pickup will be available. Have a safe and happy Halloween!