Publications & Sites 
Updated: October 11, 2012 3:09PM
ELMWOOD PARK—To try and reinvigorate the role of Elmwood Park Public Library in the community library staff recently organized several events using non-traditional methods.
So instead of holding programs and events inside the library they’ve ventured outside, hosting a Trivia Night at Circle Inn, a local bar and restaurant located at 7707 Westwood Drive, about a half a block west of the library. The event took place Aug. 28 and organizers said they had a good turnout.
Garrett Gottschalk, adult services librarian at the library, acted as the master of ceremonies of the event, questioning the participants.
“We all sort of brainstormed the questions,” he said. “They covered current events, sports, literature, superheroes and geography.”
About 14 people signed up to attend with 18 people showing up. “More people came than signed up so whenever that happens we consider it a success,” he said.
Dan Beringhele, another Elmwood Park Library librarian who helped plan the event, said this is one of the many programs they’ve done outside of the library. They have also book discussions at different restaurants and coffee shops in the village.
“We just want to get out and engage the community,” he said.
“We’re trying a lot more these days to get more outside the walls,” Gottschalk said. “It gives us a chance to get out into the community so people don’t just see us as library employees, but people who care what’s going on here.”
“We can promote library services, have our patrons enjoy their time at the library without being at the library,” he said. “Our profession is changing so much so fast we have to stay relevant.”
They plan to have another Trivia Night at the same location Sept. 25 and the last Tuesday of every other month.
