BURRILLVILLE – Tiny tots to school age children along with some parents attired in Halloween costumes flocked to the Jesse M. Smith Memorial Library in Burrillville last week for the Boo Bash, an evening of fun and games both inside and behind the library.
The annual event is a favorite of library Director Beth Ullucci.
“It’s joyous, happy,” she said. “We love seeing the people come in and see the library.”
“The entire library staff is wonderful,” said the director about the work that goes into the event, noting that the children’s department, especially, “goes above and beyond every year.”
David Thibault, who attended the festive event with wife Jessica Thibault and their toddler Brooklyn, age two, said the library is very good at putting on such events, describing Halloween as one of the best; their super bowl. It brings out “hundreds and hundreds of people,” he said.
The Boo Bash “is awesome,” said another father, Tim Laprade.
“The kids are having a blast. My son and daughter are laughing,” Laprade said of Jacob, age 11, and Norah age two.
The price of admission – or rather lack thereof – was another attractive factor for some parents.
“It’s great having a free event,” said Christina Laprade, the children’s mother, noting that many things for families these days are costly.
What’s more, she said that Boo Bash is “nice for the smaller kids who might not do as well with traditional trick or treating.”
She said it’s also safer than Trick or Treating, which has dangers such as vehicles on the streets.
Hayley Kleciak of Glocester, who recently moved to the area from California, brought her little ones, Westin, age two and a half, and Kevin, two months, to the library.
“It’s a great way for all the kids to get together and wear their costumes,” said Adelle Adams, a children’s librarian who was surrounded by youngsters as she gave out treats. “They’re so excited about that, and they have some spooky fun.”
“I think it’s awesome… waited my whole life for this thing,” said Leah Mitchell of Glendale, seeming as thrilled as the little ones to be at the library’s annual Halloween party. Mitchell brought her toddler Grayson, age two and a half, to the Boo Bash.
“It’s great that the library does this; it’s a phenomenal job with all the activities for the kids,” Deanna Hodnett of Pascoag said. She took her youngsters Kinsley, two, and Karsyn, a one year old, to the library.
Steven and Brianna Pulver were watching their little one, Emilia, four, playing at the sandbox.
“It’s great to get the kids together and nice that the library has this for the kids,” said Steven.
“It’s nice to get them into their costumes. She’s been begging to wear it,” said Brianna.
Aylin, age two, was, like little Emilia, hard at play at the sandbox. The toddler’s mother, Emily Cardon of Burrillville, said it was, “nice to get the kids out and to socialize.” She said she was especially appreciative for the opportunity because her daughter is not yet in preschool.
Tara Paux of North Smithfield, a newcomer to the library, was with her toddler Andy, age one and a half, having a, “great first experience.” Andy’s father, Devin Corteau, said the Boo Bash was great time and that “it brings the community together.”
“The library has lots of these events we come to,” Nathaniel Eddy said of his family. Tweener Allie, age 12, said she likes the games. Mom Casie Jones of Harrisville loves the costumes, and wore one of her own. The Boo Bash provides a “good excuse to wear a favorite dress,” she said of her gown.
Parents and children alike made happy memories at Boo Bash this Halloween season courtesy of the festive work of the staff and director of the Jesse M. Smith Memorial Library in Burrillville
