SMETHPORT — An evening of food, fun and a touch of circus flair awaits as Hamlin Memorial Library prepares for its annual Dinner Auction, its largest fundraiser of the year.

The event is set for March 28 at the Smethport Fire Hall, 109 S. Nelson St. Doors will open at 4:30 p.m. for a social hour and silent auction, with dinner served at 6 p.m. and a live auction to follow.

This year’s event will embrace a circus theme, complete with elaborate decorations designed to transform the space for the evening.

“It should be a good time,” said Lori Rounsville, director of Hamlin Memorial Library.

The event will feature more than 100 auction items, ranging from themed baskets to handmade and collectible pieces. Highlights include a Smethport Hubber yard sign donated by Jennifer Ruhlman, original paintings and a miniature toy store diorama donated by Joan Shultz, Brian Schultz and Nancy O’Day.

Attendees can also expect items related to W.R. Case & Sons Cutlery Co. and Zippo Manufacturing Co., along with a wide variety of donated goods and experiences.

“We have a lot of very unique stuff this year,” Rounsville said. “I think there is something for everyone.”

In addition to the traditional auction, the evening will include a dessert auction, with homemade treats donated by community members.

Dinner will feature roast beef, chicken and a baked potato bar, along with a variety of sides, snacks and desserts.

Tickets are $35 and must be reserved by Wednesday. They are available at the library at 123 S. Mechanic St.

Rounsville emphasized that the fundraiser plays a critical role in sustaining library operations.

“People have the mistaken idea that we get all of our money from the government, but that is absolutely not true,” she said. “We need events like these to keep providing everything we offer.”

Proceeds from the event help cover operating costs, as well as upcoming maintenance needs. Rounsville noted that the library’s upcoming needs include concrete work and the eventual replacement of its furnace.

The success of the auction depends heavily on community support, from both donors and volunteers. Local businesses and individuals have contributed items for the auction, and volunteers, including library board members and students, will help organize and run the event. Tim Asinger will serve as the auctioneer for the evening.

Beyond the fundraiser, Rounsville said the library continues to see strong support through memorial donations and book contributions from the community. Donated books not added to the collection are sold to raise additional funds.

“Every little bit helps,” Rounsville said. “We are thankful to be part of such a generous community that continues to support our library year after year.”

For more information, call (814) 887-9262 or visit the library’s Facebook page.