Delaware library uses chocolate to raise money

The Valentine’s Day snowstorm this year may have pushed back the Wilmington Library Annual Chocolate Festival originally scheduled on February 14th but nothing could keep people away from all the tasty treats on display today.

The Friends of the Wilmington Library hosted the event where at least a dozen local officials including WHYY judged the baked goods before it opened to the public. Delaware’s amateur and professional bakers have been competing for the number one spot in a range of categories for the past 8 years. Salted chocolate peanut butter brittle, sugar-free chocolate fudge and tuxedo chocolate mousse cake are just some of the treats that were sold on Friday.

“Folks love to bake, folks love chocolate,” said festival organizer Neda Green. “The purpose is to bring attention to the library, it’s a fun event.”

Green says at least 30 bakers and chefs participate each year, and close to 50 volunteers help with the event that brings in between 14 to 16-hundred dollars annually.

However, the chocolate festival usually does more than just satisfies taste buds; it’s also a time to generate new members interested in Friends of the Wilmington Library.

“We enjoy ‘friend’ raising and as long as you’re interested in baking something homemade, you can help us achieve that,” said Green.

To become a library ‘friend’ or a volunteer, you can call 302-571-7407.