The Marshall Lyon County Library invites the public to celebrate New Year’s Eve at the Marshall Library on Monday, Dec. 31. The branches in Balaton and Cottonwood will close at 5 p.m.

“We looked at perhaps closing the library early on New Year’s Eve, since very few people usually visit on holiday evenings,” said Library Public Services Manager Paula Nemes. “But we also noticed that there was no community celebration offered and thought this would be a fun way for those who don’t stay up late to enjoy games, meet new people, and turn the page into 2019.”

Activities during the day will focus on families with children, beginning with Family Bingo at 10 a.m. and a family-friendly movie at 1 p.m. Balloon volleyball, “Jingle Bell Toss” and other games will be available, along with crafts, throughout the day in the Children’s Department.

From 6-8 p.m., activities will be stationed throughout the library, including retro board and video games, puzzles, crafts, mini-golf, a movie, and other interactives. Light snacks will be provided. All are invited to this free opportunity, which is open people of all ages. (Children age 8 and younger must be accompanied by a responsible caregiver.)

In order to focus on community interaction, all library computers will shut down at 5:30 p.m. However, people are free to browse the collections and materials may still be checked out during the event.