By DAVE DOMESCIK | Staff Writer

MONTEVALLO – The Parnell Memorial Library Foundation, an organization that seeks to raise money for the library, is set to host the first installment of the Backyard BookFest on Saturday, March 8.

The event will take place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 940 Island Street in what is being called the “backyard” of Parnell Memorial Library.

The event is set to feature a multitude of events dedicated to the joys of reading, including book vendors, authors, trivia, kids’ activities, a costume contest and more.

Funds raised at the event will go directly to the Parnell Memorial Library. Library Director Marissa Wilson spoke on the inspiration behind the creation of the event.

“The Parnell Memorial Library Foundation wanted to create an event that highlights the love of reading and showcase all of the great resources available at our local library,” Wilson said. “Other communities hold Book Festival type events, but we wanted to host one that was uniquely Montevallo (and) showcased all the great ways to enjoy books, reading and the library in a fun, vibrant festival.”

Wilson added that one of the event’s main goals is for all people to come together over the shared love of reading, fostering a sense of community at the library and beyond.

“We want people of all ages and reading levels to come together and be surrounded by all things books,” Wilson said. “It is our hope that while this event would inspire our community and visitors to read and visit the library more often, it is a fundraising opportunity for the foundation to raise funds to maintain and increase library programs, services and facilities at the Parnell Memorial Library.”

Wilson gave more detail on what attendees can expect from the new event, including its location and activities offered.

“In our shady backyard, known as the Pecan Grove, located at 941 Island Street, attendees can find authors of all genres, book-themed art, backyard games, story-time, awesome food with a variety of food trucks, a giant book photo op, character costume contest, scavenger hunt, free make and take crafts and more,” Wilson said. “There is something for everyone.”

The event is also offering a plethora of vendors covering a multitude of genres.

“We have over 50 vendors for this event,” Wilson said. “A variety of authors, from romance to historical fiction, to mystery to horror. We also have some children and young adult authors as well.”

Wilson explained that the event is filled with activities to keep families engaged throughout the day.

“We wanted to create an all-day event, with fun book-related activities throughout the day,” Wilson said. “We wanted the whole family to spend the day with us, celebrating and encouraging reading.”

Along with general upgrades to the library, the funds from the event will be used to support the Book Vending Machine at Montevallo Elementary School, the Montevallo Children’s Theatre Program and more initiatives that contribute to Montevallo as a whole.

Wilson concluded by stressing the importance of institutions like the Parnell Memorial Library in supporting the love of books and reading.

“The library is an integral part of the community‑ an important resource for all citizens,” Wilson said. “Libraries hold a wealth of information, and it is not just about books anymore. Our library also offers free services to the community such as WiFi hotspots, the Libby app, free in-person programs for teens and homeschool programs… It is our hope that the Backyard BookFest will bring awareness to the library, and show that it is a fun and busy place.”

To learn more about the inaugural Backyard BookFest, visit Parnellmemoriallibrary.org.