There's Red Carpet, Champagne and Dancing in the Books at Library Gala

If you've ever wanted to sip champagne at the circulation desk, dance in nonfiction or play croquet through the second level of the , you had your chance Saturday evening at the

"Tonight's an exciting night for the Friends of the Rochester Hills Public Library, and for the library itself," said Christine Hage, library director.

Over the past 50 years, the Friends organization has raised more than $1.5 million for the library, which uses the money for items not covered in its budget.

Most recently, the library purchased two computers for its youth section using money raised by the Friends. The library also purchased its bookmobiles and a power scooter using the funds, built and maintains the 750-gallon aquarium in the youth section of the library and funds all of its programs with money from the organization.

"It's just a fantastic resource for our community," said Oakland County Commissioner Jeff Matis, who attended Saturday's gala with his wife, Kimberly. "I support it, and that's why we're here tonight."

"Our customers who use the library see this throughout the day as they're in the building," said Hage. "Tonight is just a celebration of 50 years of service to the community and to the Rochester Hills Public Library."

"I think it's just a wonderful opportunity for the community to come together and appreciate what the Friends have done for the library," said Ruthann Bajorek, a former Friends of the Rochester Hills Public Library board member and Rochester Hills resident. "I think it's time to celebrate a little bit."

"This is a celebration of 50 years of hard work and fun," said gala co-chair Mary Rosenbusch. "This is such a gorgeous library, and we're so proud of it."