Calling all would-be wizards!

To celebrate the 15th Anniversary of the publication of Harry Potter & The Philosopher’s Stone, the Greenville-Butler County Public Library is hosting a Harry Potter Party & Celebration on Tuesday, Oct. 29, at 4:30 p.m.

“We’re going to turn the library into Hogwarts,” said Library Director Kevin Pearcey.

Hogwarts, of course, is the magical school for students in Harry Potter’s world. Created by British author J.K. Rowling, the Harry Potter franchise includes seven books and eight feature films and is largely credited with starting a reading revolution for children in the late 1990s, which carried over into the 21st Century.

“I have to be honest, I never saw what the fuss was,” said Pearcey. “Then, a few months ago, I sat down and read the first book. Needless to say, I was hooked. It’s a great series of novels and is filled with interesting characters, a wonderful plot and, of course, magic. I know now why so many children — and adults — love these books.”

The library has plenty of fun and activities planned, said Pearcey.

“We’re going to have the shops in Diagon Alley well represented, as well as Platform 9 3/4 to Hogwarts Great Hall — and the Sorting Hat,” said Pearcey. “We’ll have lots of giveaways for the children, including wands, pots, magical creatures and wizard gold.”

Snacks will Potter-inspired goodies including Chocolate Frogs and Every Flavor Beans.

Pearcey said the library plans on marveling the children with some magical experiments and a potions class for their participation.

Giveaways include books as well as scarves handmade by the library’s crochet club in the colors of two of Hogwarts’ houses – Griffyndor and Hufflepuff.

“These ladies have really done a marvelous job on these scarves and will be a great item for someone to take home,” said Pearcey.

Pearcey said the library will be closed on Oct. 29 to allow staff time for decorating and would open at 4:30 p.m. for the Harry Potter Party & Celebration only.