What can I say about A Taste for Books? At Samuels Public Library in Warren County, Virginia, it’s more than a fundraiser — it’s the party of the year. As a one-branch system serving a community of around 41,000, we rely on fundraising not just for survival, but for growth. While local government support ideally provides for basic operations, fundraising is what allows us to expand services, improve facilities, and acquire new resources.
Our annual fundraiser has grown into one of the most anticipated events in the county. The event blends creativity, community engagement, and a touch of friendly competition — all in support of the library’s mission.
At the heart of Taste for Books is a unique model: a ticketed, after-hours event where businesses and nonprofit organizations sponsor and decorate tables tied to the event’s theme (and a book/movie), offering small bites for guests to enjoy. This format gives them a chance to showcase what they do and connect with a broad audience. Guests get to enjoy food and atmosphere while participating in the event games, silent auction, and visiting the two staff-run bars.
Each year features a different theme — a highlight that attendees and hosts eagerly anticipate. Past themes have included “Clue,” “Around the World in 80 Days,” “On the High Seas,” and “British Invasion,” each sparking wildly creative interpretations. This year’s theme, “Movie Magic,” celebrated the glamour of Hollywood and cinema, with hosts bringing everything from silver-screen classics to red carpet blockbusters to life. We had a 16-piece band donate their time playing in our Oscar after-party room and had a large red carpet lining the main hallway for attendees to feel like movie stars.
We like to keep the momentum going — the next year’s theme is announced at the current year’s event, giving people something to look forward to. This year, we even had attendees vote between two options. The winning theme was revealed during the “awards ceremony,” adding a new layer of excitement. Next year we have “Animal Kingdom”!
Our community embraced the event wholeheartedly. Local businesses, schools, nonprofits, and even town departments return year after year. Our staff works hard on host recruitment, starting months in advance with a friendly email or phone call, followed by an informational packet that includes sponsorship levels and table host benefits. Clear guidelines and support help hosts feel confident and inspired. Some hosts go all out with immersive table setups, while others keep it simple and clever. No matter the approach, it’s the energy and enthusiasm that shines through.
One of the elements that makes A Taste for Books truly special is our interactive game — a custom-designed activity that encourages attendees to visit every single table, engage with hosts, and stay immersed throughout the evening. Credit for that idea goes to our current Board of Trustees President, who has been a driving force behind the event’s creative direction since its inception.
Each year’s game ties into the theme and can be anything from trivia to a scavenger hunt. One of the most memorable examples was during our 2016 Clue-themed event. In the weeks leading up to the party, staff staged a playful “crime scene” inside the library: the framed portrait of Bernard Samuels — the library’s namesake — had been “stolen.” Yellow crime scene tape and Clue-style props added to the buildup.
On the night of the event, staff and board members took on roles as classic Clue characters, complete with costumes. Guests were tasked with visiting each table to collect hints about the culprit’s identity, location, and motive. The excitement built throughout the evening, with attendees comparing notes and theories.
At the end of the night, the mystery was revealed: the guilty party was none other than our then-Board of Trustees President — dressed as Colonel Mustard — who was “arrested” in dramatic fashion and escorted out of the library in handcuffs by a real sheriff’s deputy. The crowd loved it. It’s still one of the most talked-about editions of the event.
This kind of immersive, theme-integrated experience keeps guests engaged and creates memories that last well beyond the night. It also gives the library a chance to showcase its creativity and sense of humor — reminding the community that the library is a place not just for learning, but also for joy and connection.
We also have our door prizes and a “Best of” awards ceremony that keeps energy high all evening. Categories like Best Décor, Best Food, and Fan Favorite give hosts a goal to shoot for and guests a way to celebrate their favorites.
Planning begins at least 4–6 months in advance, ideally longer, and it truly is “all hands on deck.” Everyone on the staff has a role to play. The collaborative spirit makes the event possible — and meaningful.
Because A Taste for Books is such a large production, we hold the event in the evening hours and close the library to the public for the entire Saturday it falls on. More importantly, we invite table hosts to begin setting up the day before, during the final hour or two before the library closes. This gives staff critical time for finishing the final setup and gives table hosts a window to decorate their spaces without interference. We’ve found this buffer to be essential — not only for logistics but also for staff and volunteer well-being. At least one person will need an extra extension cord.
Atmosphere is important. While you don’t need a massive décor budget, small touches can make a big impact. We’ve learned to spread decorating over several days, even weeks, giving the public a peek — and letting excitement build. We are blessed with some really creative minds on staff; this past year, someone had the brilliant idea to take old décor and props from years past (because, of course, we don’t throw anything away) to make our adult reference area into the “props department.” Another staff member had the idea to incorporate our new makerspace by heat-pressing our sponsors’ logos onto a sheet to create a red-carpet backdrop for guests to take selfies.
We’ve also grown into more of our space. Originally held in just one area, the event now spans multiple sections of the library — a good reminder not to be afraid of expanding when your audience and ambition grows.
Key advice for libraries planning a similar fundraiser includes:
- Start early. Plan at least 4–6 months ahead for theme selection, host recruitment, and game design.
- Let your theme drive the event. It should inspire décor, food, entertainment, and marketing materials.
- Build in buffer time. Close your library the day of the event and invite hosts to start setting up the day before — this reduces stress and smooths logistics.
- Prioritize atmosphere. A few well-placed decorations can completely transform your space. Get creative.
- Make it a team effort. Get every staff member involved — it builds camaraderie and distributes the workload.
- Plan the flow carefully. Consider how guests will move between tables, bars, and auction areas. You don’t want a choke point or everyone congregating in one room.
- Engage guests with games. An interactive game is key to keeping energy high and ensuring table hosts get attention.
- Celebrate your contributors. Recognize and thank your hosts, volunteers, and staff — their passion makes the event memorable.
- Adhere to all ABC and gaming state laws. If your event includes alcohol or raffle/auction components, be sure to check with your state’s Alcoholic Beverage Control and gaming regulations early in the planning process. Compliance is key to keeping your fundraiser legal, safe, and sustainable.

10. Start small and build up. If you’re launching a new fundraiser, consider keeping your first year simple — lower ticket prices, fewer tables, and a manageable scope that can help you learn what works and improve year by year.
11. Recruit volunteers. Don’t underestimate the power of volunteers. Local service clubs, students, and community groups are often eager to help — from setup to cleanup, every extra hand makes a difference. Shout out to our local Target, which sends people every year. We appreciate their support.
Overall, the event has been very successful. This past year, we maxed out our table hosts and sold well over 350 tickets. Funds come from multiple sources, including businesses and organization sponsors, the silent auction, and, of course, ticket sales. We are very pleased to say we raised over $30,000 with our “Movie Magic” event. In April of 2026, we plan to host our 13th A Taste for Books — “Animal Kingdom.” We’ll celebrate the power of story, community, and the public library. This event isn’t just a fundraiser. It’s a testament to what happens when a library becomes the heart of its town — and throws a great party while doing it.
-Erin Rooney, Director, Samuels Public Library