It’s time to warm up your putting swing for the seventh Howel Classic mini-golf extravaganza. Michelle Schembri, development coordinator for the Howe Library Corporation, says last year’s classic raised approximately $38,000.

"Every year we raise a bit more,” she adds. “The money comes not only from ticket sales but also from local businesses that support the library. More people attend the event each year.”

The fun begins Saturday evening, March 18, with The 19th Hole. Guests 21 years old or older will try their skills on an 18-hole mini-golf course set up throughout the library while enjoying the jazz sounds of Linda Boudreault and Friends. Hors d’oeuvres will be served and a selection of wines and beers will be available.

Michelle describes the atmosphere as classy, with everyone dressed in cocktail attire and jazz playing in the background. “But you’ll hear people screaming if they get a hole in one,” she adds.

While the adults enjoy themselves, the kids can participate in a pajama party. Children ages 4 to 11 can enjoy crafts such as origami, clay, and collage making. There will be music and stories with Gary Barton, a kid-friendly movie, and snacks. All the kids are encouraged to wear their pj’s and bring blankets, sleeping bags, pillows, and their snuggly stuffed friends. (The kids are required to have a parent attending the adult event happening at the same time.)

On Sunday, March 19, the entire family can try their luck at the indoor mini-golf course at the Howel Open. Everyone can also nosh on pizza, burritos, and other treats, and a library board member will be sharing his juggling skills. “It’s a chaotic and fun day,” Michelle says.

This event is put on by the Howe Library Corporation as a fundraiser in support of the library. The corporation is a nonprofit organization founded in 1900 when the first Hanover public library began in patron Emily Howe’s home on West Wheelock Street. The corporation was responsible for the library’s operating budget until 1973 when it became a department of the town. Since that time, the corporation has raised money for special programs and services. Michelle explains, “Think of it as a birthday cake. The town funding is the cake, and we’re like the icing on the cake.”

Tickets for the Howel Classic are $60 per person for the adults-only 19th Hole Party, $15 per child for the kids Pajama Party, and $5 per person for the Howel Open on Sunday.  The Pajama Party is usually a sell-out, so get your reservations in ASAP. 

Tickets can be ordered online at the library’s website (www.thehowe.org/howeltickets) or at the library, 13 South Street, Hanover.