If you’re like me, you love the Westport Library.
And if you’re like me, you love only the parts you know.
I’ve never entered the children’s section. I had no idea there were oversize art books on the mezzanine level. And that back room, beyond the reference desk, might as well be an OTB parlor. I know people hang out there every day, but I have no idea what they do.
Similarly, other folks never enter the big, airy reading room. Or see the River of Names mural. Some Westporters don’t know the library lends thousands of DVDs — for free.
Earlier this year, during the library’s mini-golf game (yes, that’s right), the staff realized few participants explore the entire building. So they’re sponsoring a new event: The Great Race.
Subtitled “A Scavenger Hunt,” it’s set for 6-8 p.m. this Friday, November 6. For an entry fee of $15 per team, groups of 1-6 people receive a packet of 26 clues. They’ll scatter throughout the library’s nooks and crannies seeking answers. The reward: wine and cheese for the adults, cookies and juice for the kids.
In the spirit of library correctness, I should point out that this is not exactly a scavenger hunt — you don’t retrieve any items.
And it’s not really a race — people can start at different times, any time after 6.
I’d also argue that 1 person cannot make up a “team,” but that’s pretty nit-picky.
Bottom line: Westport’s library rocks. What a great chance to run around, have fun and be social.
And talk in the library as loudly as you want.
(For more information, contact Sandy Young: 203-291-4829; syoung@westportlibrary.org. To register, click here.)

I have no idea if the River of Names mural on the lower level will be part of the Great Race. But there's a great Westport story behind this tile. Do you know it? (Photo courtesy of fotki.com)