Suspects eyed for Carol Stream library murder mystery
Trouble keeps finding a home at the Carol Stream Public Library.
About every year, when moon rises and the streets fall quiet, the library transforms into a den of gambling, jazz and even murder.
When a victim was found during the library's first murder mystery in November 2007, more than 40 patrons, staff and Friends of the Library members helped solve the case - even though it was all pretend.
But library Director Ann Kennedy said patrons, or, um, rookie detectives, in the joint learned an important lesson.
"We wanted to get people into the library and see that you can actually have fun here," she said.
It seems this year's event could prove just as fun - and just as deadly. After the librarians shelve the last book of the day on Friday, Jan. 23, roulette dealers will set up their wheels, flappers will kick up their heels and fortune tellers will lay out their cards as the library transforms into O'Henry's 1920s Speakeasy.
And as visitors slip into roles, which they will learn when handed a secret envelope at the door, mischief is bound to ensue, Kennedy said.
Wallflowers who just who want to keep an eye on the scene can hide behind their fedoras in the shadows. But partying patrons who want to join in the fun, or investigate any crimes that may happen, can play key roles.
Kennedy said police already have set up surveillance on the scene and have their eye on repeat offenders from the last library murder - including herself and staff members Lynn Johnson, Pat Roche and Mary Clemens.
The only way to find out how it all goes down, however, is to stop by the library Jan. 23.
If you go
What: 1920s Murder Mystery, hosted by Friends of the Carol Stream Public Library
When: 6 p.m. Friday, Jan. 23
Where: Carol Stream Public Library, 616 Hiawatha Drive, Carol Stream
Cost: $20
Info: (630) 653-0755 or cslibrary.org