Library Opens Its Doors For Dancing

It's a place more accustomed to books than bogeying, but a unique community event tonight at Cary Memorial Library looks to shake things up with a square- and contra-dancing event.

The library's main floor will be transformed into a dance floor tonight at 7 p.m., for Stompin' in the Stacks, the first event of its kind being held by the library's Teen Advisory Board (TAB).

Live music will be played by Matching Orange, a group featuring Eric Eid-Reiner, a piano player and member of the Lexington High School class of 2007. George Marshall will be leading and teaching the dances.

Pam Ikauniks, Cary's young adult librarian, has been leading TAB since it formed in 2004, around when the library renovation was completed. TAB, made up of about 30 Lexington teenagers, plans events and activities at the library to appeal to teens and get them involved with the library in an interesting way, Ikauniks said.

"We have kids eager to brainstorm ways of involving teens at the library," she said. "We thought we'd go ahead and try this."

TAB has held several events at the library this year, including a sushi demonstration night, a technology seminar for senior citizens and taught by teens and open mic nights. It also held a shopping night last fall, offering gift books for sale.

Tonight's square- and contra-dancing event seemed like a fun – and unique – way to wrap up the school year for TAB, while attracting teens and adults alike to come out for a night of dancing, Ikauniks said.

"We thought it would be a good bookend to the season," she said. "We're delighted to be doing this."

While the event is being planned by TAB, Ikauniks said she hopes a range of community members, ages 12 and up, with a variety of experience, or none at all, will attend. Arriving with a dance partner is not required.

If it is a success, Ikauniks said she hopes TAB can hold a similar event again in the future. It is free, tickets are not required and refreshments will be served.

Stompin' in the Stacks will be held from 7 to 9 p.m. at the library, 1874 Massachusetts Ave.