(STILLWATER, OKLAHOMA / May 5, 2023) – The Stillwater Public Library is teaming up with Iron Monk Brewing Company to celebrate the library’s Centennial with a community keg fundraiser and StorySLAM on Thursday, May 25, from 5-7 p.m. All sales from Iron Monk’s “Library Centenni-Ale” will benefit the Library Trust.
In addition to a new brew to sample, attendees are invited to participate in a StorySLAM, a live storytelling competition popularized by “The Moth.” Would be storytellers need to prepare a true, five to eight minute story to tell from memory on the theme of “Library Adventures.” Even though the event is intended for adults 21 and up, it is still a library event so storytellers should plan to keep the content appropriate.
“We wanted to pick a theme that could encompass stories related to the library as a physical place, but would also let people tie it to reading and books more generally,” said Emily States, adult services librarian. “Since many of us get books at the library, it’s easy to open up the theme to talk about literature and its impact on your life.”
Ideally, StorySLAM participants will register in advance, although, anyone can also decide to take part on the night of the event.
“We understand that getting up in front of people can be intimidating,” States said. “We have held several StorySLAMs and usually once people see that they’re in a friendly and supportive space, they start to feel more comfortable sharing with others.”
Potential storytellers will have their names put in a hat at the event and names will be drawn at random. Not everyone who wants to share a story will necessarily be selected. Judges will be chosen from the audience and prizes will be awarded to the top three storytellers, with the first place winner receiving a $50 gift card to Bliss Books. All storytellers will receive a pint glass and Centennial sticker.
In addition to the ale release, attendees will be able to purchase a library Centennial commemorative pint glass for $5. The glasses include the library’s Centennial logo and a Shakespearean inspired phrase, “Ale’s well that ends well.” The glasses were purchased thanks to a donation from the Stillwater Community Foundation (SCF) and all sales will also go to support the Library Trust.
SCF Board Chair John Killam is pleased to be able to contribute to the Library Trust.
“Our library is a community jewel and it is exciting to help celebrate 100 years of service,” Killam said.
Library Director Stacy DeLano hopes to grow the Library Trust and educate the public about its role during the 2023 Centennial year.
“The Trust receives and administers donations for services and programs beyond the funding capabilities of the library’s annual operating budget,” DeLano said. “We hope that by building up the Trust we can tackle even bigger and more impactful projects in our second century.”
As the Trust grows, the library receives a larger annual distribution that can be used to replenish dated book collections, improve technology and even fund new programs and services.
“We are so thankful to Iron Monk and the Stillwater Community Foundation for this opportunity,” DeLano said. “The library could not be what it is today without the support we receive from local businesses and organizations.”
For more information about the StorySLAM, including registration, and to learn more about the library’s Centennial and donating to the Library Trust, visit library.stillwater.org/SPL100.php.
Iron Monk Brewing is located at 519 S. Husband St. Learn more about Iron Monk at ironmonkbeer.com.