Those looking to indulge in the spookiness of the season need look no further than Chillicothe Public Library. During the month of October, all ages are invited to submit a short spooky story to add to the library’s Spooky Story Collection! Details are at the library, where you can also read stories from previous years.

Kids ages 6-14 can make spider-web marble paintings on 10/7 at 3:15pm.

What’s spookier than book banning? Teens and adults are welcome to attend the Banned Books Café on 10/8 at 6pm to learn more about the history of book bans and why many books are still being challenged today. There will be trivia, activities, and plenty of banned books to check out.

On 10/23 at 6:30pm, adults and teens can explore the Celtic roots of Halloween as singer-songwriter Barry Cloyd brings to life the tales and songs of the ancient celebration of Samhein. 

Dr. Sara Netzley will join us on 10/28 at 6pm to delve into the deeper themes and meanings in some of our favorite horror movies, as well as the social and psychological reasons we’re drawn to horror. This is part of the library’s “Let’s Taco ’bout It” series, and tacos are served, courtesy of Taco Bell. Registration is required if you want a taco.

Prepare for Dr. Netzley’s talk by watching The Final Girls (PG-13) on 10/6 and The Host ( R) on 10/20, both at noon. And on 10/29 at 6pm, those wanting to be part of the action can enjoy an interactive screening of The Addams Family (rated PG-13), open to ages 10 through adult (registration is required for a prop kit).

Wrapping up the month, the library is partnering with Cabbages & Kings Games to offer “Frankengames” on 10/30 at 6pm! Bring the whole family (2nd grade through adults) to create new board games out of old bits and pieces. Registration appreciated.

The library is also a stop during Merchant Trick-or-Treat on 10/24—come say hello and show off your costumes!

Registration and information for all library programs and services is available at www.chillipld.org, or by calling 309-274-2719. Chillicothe Public Library is located at 430 N. Bradley Ave., Chillicothe, IL.