EWU Libraries Hosts its 16th Annual Oktoberfest

Ordinarily a place for reading books, the JFK Library will transform into a fairy tale itself Saturday, Oct. 20, in celebration of this year’s Oktoberfest.

EWU alumni, students, faculty and staff are all encouraged to come dressed as their favorite fairy-tale character – or villain – with this year’s theme being “Once Upon a Time.”

What began 16 years ago as a small celebration in the library, Oktoberfest is now one of the most successful fundraising events on campus, and the only one specifically dedicated to library research collections.

The event, which typically generates about $50,000, consists of a live and silent auction made possible through the support of local companies, individual donors and the participation of many EWU alumni. Auction items this year range from a one-night stay at the Davenport Tower hotel with holiday festivities included, to a one-week stay in Maui! Proceeds from the event go to the EWU Libraries’ Collection Endowment Fund that, in turn, helps purchase books, journals and resources for student use.

“The library is a central feature of the university,” said Charles V. Mutschler, PhD and interim dean of libraries for EWU. “Donations enable us to enhance library collections that further improve student education and experience.”

To EWU Director of Library Engagement Carol King, Oktoberfest holds significant importance for many reasons, one of them being the hardworking people involved in making the event possible. “The Oktoberfest Committee truly is a family,” said King. “They drive the decisions, come up with the ideas and recommendations. This event has grown with the people involved.”

This year’s event will host beer and wine tastings from local brewers and vintners, food catered by EWU Dining Services with desserts from Marsells Cakes and Boots Bakery, and entertainment provided by Floating Crowbar. While the majority of tables take reservations, seating and tables will be provided throughout the library for attendees not looking to reserve a spot.

“Each year the event gets better,” said King. Come, join in the festivities, and help to make this the best year yet.