MARION -- "Tragedy" struck the Marion Carnegie Library last Tuesday. Actor Austin Jane, was murdered and it was up to library patrons to solve the mystery.
A total of 21 adults participated in this scavenger hunt-style murder mystery. Clues were hidden among the stacks, in staged scenes and throughout different departments of the library. This program is part of a new emphasis that the library is putting toward adult programming.
Sarah Wingate, coordinator of library services, is behind this initiative.
"Adults are difficult to cater to," she said. "I am trying to focus on offering a variety of programs that can benefit our community and are enjoyable. The more programs we can offer will help us reach out to our community."
Recent programs include historical speakers, financial aid advisers and adult craft nights.
Several participants in the mystery had never attended any library program before. Others, like Sally Haack, use the library often. Haack said she enjoyed her first murder mystery and "liked working with others."
After searching for clues, the group gathered to share theories and watch a video of "Suspect Statements." These statements were prerecorded by library staff and volunteers. After swapping clues, patrons accused the suspect they thought was guilty.
The murderer was then revealed in a video of "Suspect Confessions." Charlotte Holliday, the library's administrative assistant, was the only participant who guessed the murderer correctly. For being the ultimate sleuth, she was presented with a copy of "The No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency" by Alexander McCall Smith.
Similar adult-themed programs are already in the works.
"Keep looking for new and exciting programs to be happening at the library," Wingate said. "Adult programming is really starting to take off and we have some big ideas of things to come."
To learn more about upcoming events, check the calendar on www.marioncarnegielibrary.org or follow Marion Carnegie Library on Facebook.
