Last weekend, an event at the Mary Idema Pew Library blurred the line between textbooks and terror when Campus Activities Board (CAB) revived the second-annual Haunted Library.
The event, which debuted in 2024, transformed the typically studious halls of the library into a shadow-filled labyrinth of flickering glow-stick lights. Groups armed only with glow sticks crept their way through dim corridors while passing costumed “zombies” who lurked between bookshelves and underneath tables. Attendees’ task was simple but suspenseful: move quietly, keep their light intact and survive the journey long enough to claim a reward of candy and stickers. The event was also co-sponsored Housing and Residence Life and the Office of Student Life, along with the involvement of library staffers.
In its 2024 premiere, the event turned the library’s basement through its upper floors into a haunted route using caution tape, darkened pathways and lurking actors that surprised participants, with the most intense scares assigned to the upper levels. This year, CAB staff said they expanded the experience by introducing a reservation system to better accommodate crowds of students, in addition to adding a Halloween-themed party with games and snacks.
To reduce wait times and keep the flow of crowds moving, students reserved time slots in advance through a link on CAB’s social-media platforms and website. Those who placed reservations were asked to arrive 30 minutes early, while walk-ins were admitted as time slots became available.
Katie Garrett, assistant director of programming for the Office of Student Life, said the event built on strong interest students showed last October.
“We made a few exciting changes this year,” said Garrett. “The biggest is that we’ve added a Halloween party in the Kirkhof Lobby to make the whole experience more fun and engaging from start to finish.”
Students waiting for their scheduled slot could participate in games and activities hosted by the Department of Public Safety (GVPD), the Dean of Students Office and the Wellness Information Team, all while enjoying snacks from University food vendors. Garrett said event planning began over the summer, and student volunteers were recruited in August to serve as zombie actors.
Lauren Anderson, a third-year psychology major, was excited to see how the event would be different its second year.
“I went last year, and it was honestly one of my favorite campus events,” said Anderson. “You don’t usually see the library turned into something like that, so it really stuck with me. I’m excited to see how they’re adding more this year. The party and extra activities sound like they’ll make the whole experience even better.”
By including more activities this year and seeing increased departmental involvement, CAB’s Haunted Library aims to solidify itself as a Halloween tradition for all Lakers to enjoy.
