Beer, pizza and puzzles

Sharp eyes, a thirsty palate and empty stomach will be required for participants in the Everly Public Library's upcoming fundraiser.

Puzzles for Publications will be held on Saturday, April 15 at the Hap Ketelsen Community Center. The event will pit teams of four against each other competing to finish a 550-piece puzzle, drink 18 beers and eat an entire large pizza.

According to library Director Christie Seivert, Puzzles for Publications came about after a board member reached out to her with a unique fundraiser idea that he could "get behind."

"I thought it sounded like a fun event that has not happened in our area and would draw in a different group than our regular library patrons," Seivert said.

The first place team will win its entry fee back, and other prizes will be given throughout the night. Seivert said earlier this week that 11 teams had registered with more spots open. Anyone interested in competing can register their team by visiting the library's Facebook page for more information.

Proceeds from the event will be used to purchase books and materials for the library's monthly Bookworm Bags program. The bags are handed out to over 20 kids in the Everly area and contain a book, snack, unique activity and a craft.

"We're hoping to have a full house and we're expecting to have a lot of fun," Seivert said.

• EPL offering more for patrons of all ages

Next week's fundraiser is one of many things going on right now at the Everly Public Library.

The facility is reaching the conclusion of work on its exterior space. Sod will be laid early this spring, and remodeling of the west wall of the building is also slated to take place.

New windows, insulation and drywall will be installed thanks partly to a $10,000 grant from the Clay County Community Foundation.

"After the renovation, we will be painting the older parts of the building and revamping the children's area," Seivert explained. "These projects could not be completed without the support of our Friends of the Library group and the community."

Outreach has also been a big focal point recently. In January, the library started compiling a monthly newsletter that is sent to community members.

"We not only include library happenings, but also community events," said Seivert. "We are starting to see a few more people walk through our doors because they are seeing what we have to offer."

Seivert also attributed increased foot traffic to more children's programming, which is now held during the week instead on the weekend.

"We are listening to the parents and what they need," she said.

Seivert encouraged Everly-area residents to check out what the library has to offer.

"Give us a chance to support you and your family, whether it is by providing an activity for you to participate in or getting you a couple of books to read as a bedtime story," she said.