For Immediate Release:
Contact: Tia Freeman
(757) 664-7338

BOOKS & BREW: FRIENDS HOLD HAPPY HOUR DURING LIBRARY USED BOOK SALE

Norfolk, VA (September 29, 2004) - The Friends of the Norfolk Public Library will hold their 2nd annual Books and Brew Happy Hour at Kirn Memorial Library on Friday, October 15 from 5:30 p.m to 8:00 p.m. During Books & Brew, residents can browse for books at the Friends' Used Book Sale while enjoying live music, libations, and nibbles. Tickets for the event are $10 in advance and $15 at the door and may be purchased from members of the Friends, at Kirn Memorial Library, or at the Pretlow, Lafayette and Larchmont branch libraries.

"This year's event will be even bigger than last year's event," says Books & Brew Co-Chairwoman Jody Benedict. "Like last year, baskets brimming with goodies will again be raffled off at $1 per chance. But unlike last year, the party will take place on both the first and second floors of the library," adds Benedict. A fantastic live band will supply the music and patrons can purchase drinks and raffle chances on the first floor of the Library. On the second floor, guests can enjoy Starbucks Coffee and desserts from the Cheesecake Factory, both courtesy of the MacArthur Center locations.

Also new this year is the food supplier. Creative Catering of Virginia has generously agreed to donate all of the food for Books and Brew. Poised to become the premier caterer in Hampton Roads, Creative Catering of Virginia has catered numerous parties for Armada Hoffler and Divaris Real Estate as well as the openings for Town Center and Galyans Sporting Goods in Virginia Beach. The company also provides catering services for private aircrafts and their passengers. Both the cast of Friends and the Charlotte Hornets have enjoyed Creative Catering's cuisine. In the true spirit of bipartisanship, the company has served both Nancy Reagan and John Kerry. In fact, Creative Catering recently sent Mrs. Reagan a smoked ham for Thanksgiving.

"I encourage everyone to stop by the library after work for music, a few cocktails, and a little shopping before your night out downtown. Have a good time while helping us create a city of readers," says Beth Williams, former president of the Friends.

For those who can't attend the happy hour, the Used Book Sale is still an option. Thousand of used books will be sold at bargain prices. The sale dates have been extended again this year. The sale will run from: 10:00 a.m.-5:30 p.m. on Friday, October 15; 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 16; 1:00 p.m. -5:00 p.m. on Sunday, October 17; 10:00 a.m. -6:00 p.m. on Monday, October 18; and 10 a.m. to 3:00 p.m on Tuesday, October 19. A Preview Night for Friends members will be held on Thursday, October 14 from 4:00 p.m. -8:00 p.m. Join at the door and become a member of the Friends for as little as $15. Book selections at the Used Book Sale include popular fiction, nonfiction, how-to-books, reference, gardening, children's books and more. Hardcover books sell for $3.00 while paperbacks sell for $1.00 or $2.00. Stack up on children's hardcover books for $2.00.

Books at the sale come from many sources including donations and weeding of the Library's collection. This is a great opportunity for educators, parents, budget-minded readers, collectors, college students and anyone who loves reading to find great book bargains. Proceeds from these events benefit the Norfolk Public Library. Kirn Memorial Library is located at 301 E. City Hall Avenue in downtown Norfolk. Parking will be validated for the MacArthur Center South garage for three free hours. Bring your ticket to the library for validation. Call 664-READ for more information.

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