ELLSWORTH – The Ellsworth Public Library warmly invites the community to an exciting Open House featuring a Mocktails and Appetizer Tasting Party from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 14. Join us for a delightful evening of delicious mocktails and appetizers, all on us!

This special event is not just about the tasty treats; it’s an opportunity to take home fantastic mocktail recipes to impress your friends and family during the upcoming holiday season.

“We’re thrilled to draw inspiration from a diverse selection of cookbooks in our library system, such as Free Spirit Cocktails by Camille Wilson, Mocktails: Non-Alcoholic Cocktails with Taste and Style by Caroline Hwang, and The New York Bartender's Guide by Sally Ann Berk. With our extensive collection, you’ll find a wealth of recipes for healthy drinks, powerhouse smoothies, low-alcohol options, and much more,” said Assistant Librarian Robin Kruse.

Helping us make this evening extra special are our special guest bartenders, Steve and Todd Straub, who will showcase their mixology skills.

“One of the Friends of the Library brought up the idea of inviting the Straub brothers, harkening back to the unforgettable ‘StevenTodd’ days,” Kruse said. “We loved the suggestion—they're both such fun and easy-going personalities.”

The Straub brothers used to own a bar in the East End, now known as Danny Dunn’s.

The Open House is dedicated to honoring the Friends of the Ellsworth Public Library. The public is invited to meet the Friends, express gratitude for their generous support, and learn more about their mission to enhance our library services and community engagement.

According to Kruse, The Friends of Ellsworth Public Library have long been vital supporters of the library, making notable contributions over the past year. They provided volunteer assistance during Community Trick or Treat and funded a virtual library tour for the website. Additionally, they organized community fundraising events such as Ridgetop, the Cheese Curd Festival, and the Showdown in Curdtown Truck & Tractor Pull.

Their financial backing has also been instrumental in supporting programs like Star Wars Day, summer family events, and monthly activities at the senior center. Furthermore, the Friends offered grant-writing assistance for the Summer Fun Series and for improving building accessibility.

They played a key role in the library's Centennial Celebration and used memorial donations to purchase items for the Storytime Playspace, including a dress-up station, costumes, and a wooden train set. In addition to these contributions, they sponsor the library's coffee station, maintain a perpetual book sale shelf, support Little Free Libraries, and assisted with a Community Conversation on Accessibility.

For more information, please contact the library at 715-273-3209 or email eplstaff@ellsworthlibrary.org.