Harry Potter first took the literature world by storm in 1999, when the first novel of the series, “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone,” was published.
These novels have led to a series of movies based on the books, as well as a two dedicated sections at the Universal Studios theme park.
The Bradford Area Public Library is now bringing this wizarding world to Bradford with a Harry Potter day this Saturday at the library.
The event will be from noon until 2 p.m., and although it is free, spacing is limited and participants must sign up at the library. The spacing is limited to 30 individuals.
Sydney Emerson, who is going into 11th grade at the Bradford Area High School, came up with the idea for this day, and has worked with the library to make it happen.
“I’ve always loved Harry Potter, and wanted to provide a fun and immersive experience for local Harry Potter fans,” stated Emerson. “So, I approached the Bradford Area Public Library with the idea, and they agreed to facilitate it.”
Emerson has been involved with the library since she was in middle school, so she felt as though it was a natural choice for this event.
She first read Harry Potter in fifth grade, and since then has read the series five or six more times.
“The series is truly a universal story, and the love of the story unites many people everywhere,” said Emerson.
She stated that she believed it was clear that she would be a good person to run the event, and that it would also be a good event for the library.
At the Harry Potter Day, there will be a sorting quiz where participants will be sorted into their Hogwarts houses.
There will also be a “History of Magic” Harry Potter trivia game; a “Potions class,” where individuals will make non-alcoholic Butterbeer and finally a scavenger hunt for fantastic beasts around the library.
Emerson believes that judging by the number of teens that visit the library and the number of Harry Potter fans in the area, that the event will bring a good turn out.
Colette Roessler, adult programming and marketing coordinator for the the library, has also been working with Emerson on planning.
“The mission of the library is to inform, educate, and enrich our community,” stated Roessler. “One of the ways that we do achieve this mission is by offering programs for children, teens and adults.”
She stated that it is her goal, as the adult programming coordinator, to develop programs that will support this mission, as well as spark an interest with individuals.
