Chiara Burson, Staff Writer–
Have you ever wondered if there are any ghosts on campus? Maybe in the graveyard behind Smith Hall, possessing the shrieking buzzards on top of Barney-Davis, or in the pews of Swasey Chapel? All of these locations could easily be seen as haunted, but none embrace the spirit of Halloween like the Doane Library.
You may have noticed the giant skeleton and haunted booth by the library’s front desk, but that is just the tip of the Halloween iceberg. It’s most well-known tradition for the spooky season lies in the haunted library tours, which are held for one weekend every year.
Some places that are normally off limits to everyone but staff are featured in the tours. A few of these secret spots include break rooms, the top floor filled with government records, and the rooftop. Students also have a history of volunteering at the event, whether it is setting up the decorations, or dressing up to provide a few scares along the way. These students, the dim lighting, and all of the spooky decor are sure to create a fun and frightening atmosphere for attendees,
The tours began in 2021, and became so popular among students that it has continued all the way to 2024. Part of why students repeatedly return to the tours is that each year, the library staff makes a point of adding or updating elements of the event. Kent Huffman, a library associate and the designer of the experience, hopes that students will find this year’s tour the spookiest and most exciting yet.
“There are lots of new elements this year,” Huffman said. “Some are simple, and some are very complex.”
Tours, however, are not the only thing the library will offer during the event. Like in previous years, there will be a costume contest with a chance to win various prizes, as well as tarot card readings for all who are interested. Additionally, the first day of the tours happens to coincide with Dia de Los Muertos, and an ofrenda will be in place for anyone to honor their loved ones who have passed away.
The tours normally take place the weekend before Halloween, but this year, they were switched to the weekend after so attendants of Big Red Weekend could also participate.
The event will take place on Nov. 1 and Nov. 2, with 30 minute tours between 6 p.m. and 10 p.m. It is expected to have the largest turnout in the event’s history, so be sure to secure your spot as soon as possible on WhatToDu…if you dare.