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Grab your lightsaber and head to the Wauconda Area Library for "Star Wars" celebration

Wauconda Area Library staffers will celebrate the 40th anniversary of the "Star Wars" franchise next week - and they're hoping you'll join the rebellious fun.

A free film screening, craft activities and other "Star Wars"-related events are set for May 4-6 at the library, 801 N. Main St.

The three-day party precedes the anniversary of the release of the first movie in the series on May 25, 1977. "Star Wars: Episode IV - A New Hope" launched a film and merchandise empire the likes of which had never been seen and inspired countless moviegoers to dream of the stars.

It's also a series that has bridged generations of fans, said Kelly Marsch, a public services associate at the Wauconda library.

"There's not only the original die-hards like me that remember seeing it as a child ... but there's also my parents that took me and also fell in love (with the films)," Marsch said. "Now I share it with my child, nephews and all the children I've taught over the years."

The library's "Star Wars" bash begins May 4 with board games at 5 p.m. Additionally, staffers will help little "Star Wars" fans make their own Yoda ears starting at 5 p.m., and a presentation about stop-motion animation - a technique used extensively in the original "Star Wars" trilogy - is scheduled for 6:30 p.m.

A trivia contest for adults is scheduled for 7 p.m. Participants are encouraged to dress as their favorite "Star Wars" characters.

On May 5, the library will show "Rogue One: A Star Wars Story" at 5:30 p.m. Pizza will be provided and attendees are encouraged to cosplay.

Finally, on May 6, the library will host a variety of "Star Wars" activities between 1 and 4 p.m. A scavenger hunt, cosplay fun and lightsaber construction are among the planned events.

The library also will let "Star Wars" fans publicly display their memorabilia that day.

Marsch hopes to see some movie posters and items from the original films. If you're interested in exhibiting, email Marsch at kmarsch@wauclib.org or call (847) 526-6225.

"(It may) help start a whole new generation of Star Wars fans," Marsch said.

Participants don't need to be Wauconda Area Library residents. The library will supply tables and chairs.

Collectors are responsible for the care of their items and should be prepared to stay with their displays, Marsch said.

Adult services librarian Emily Daniel already has lent some of her family's extensive "Star Wars" collection to the library for a display in the foyer.

"We collect everything - VHS tapes, DVDs, action figures, Pepsi cans from 'The Phantom Menace' release - because 'Star Wars' is something my whole family loves," Daniel said. "It's one of those franchises that I can't imagine people not loving."

The full schedule of events can be found online at wauclib.org/star-wars.

Registration is required for some events. To register or learn more, go to wauclib.org or call (847) 526-6225.

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  A selection of "Star Wars" books are on display at the Wauconda Area Library, along with items from librarian Emily Daniel's private family collection. Paul Valade/pvalade@dailyherald.com
  A selection of "Star Wars" collectibles on display at the Wauconda Area Library. Paul Valade/pvalade@dailyherald.com
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