Costumed kids pack inside Roxborough Library for parade and party

It was a standing-room only crowd of children dressed as pirates, princesses, superheroes, ghouls, ghosts, goblins and even one presidential candidate at the Roxborough Branch of the Free Library of Philadelphia on Wednesday night. The annual children’s Halloween program was held in the building’s meeting room downstairs.

“I don’t think this room is big enough if it’s going to be this popular,” said Kevin Jones, who brought his son, Evan, or Count Dracula for the night. When asked what his favorite part of Halloween was, Evan enthusiastically replied, “Trick or Treating!”

The Halloween program, run by the Friends of the Roxborough Library, included various activities such as face painting, and arts and crafts led by members of Girl Scout Troop 9196, who also doubled as comedians telling Halloween themed jokes through the night. 

Here’s one: “Why do skeletons not play music in church? Because they have no organs.”

Children’s Librarian Irene Klemas-Brady led the reading of stories that encouraged audience participation. After some stories and music, the costumed children went on parade through the library, returning for some ‘scary’ snacks.

“It’s a long-time annual event,” said Roxborough branch manager, Bruce Siebers.

The Roxborough branch holds a number of holiday programs throughout the year. After Halloween, the library will hold a Christmas program. It is also the only branch in the library system that holds a family Mardi Gras program, which was started two years ago by Siebers.

“This year, we have two Halloween events,” said Siebers. “We have this event and on Oct. 31, we will have a Halloween program for teens.”

The Teen Halloween Program will be run by the Teen Friends of the Free Library. According to Siebers, there are a dozen members of the Teen Friends. The Roxborough Branch is the only branch in the Free Library of Philadelphia System with a Teen Friends Chapter.

“They’ll be running the show,” said Siebers.

The Teen Halloween Program will include ‘Scary’ snacks along with line dancing and a costume party. The festivities begin at 4 p.m. on Oct. 31 for Teen Halloween. 

For more about the Friends of the Roxborough Library, check out their Facebook page.