‘Beer for Books’ event raises money for Wyoming Free Library

EXETER – For a second year, Wyoming Free Library drew about 100 people to Sabatini’s Bottleshop & Bar for a “Beer for Books” fundraiser, providing a chance for a bit of Thursday night fun for a good cause.

Those attending had an opportunity to enjoy refreshments, food and music and to raise money for the library that serves as a hub of activity for all ages.

For a group of women from West Wyoming, the fundraiser provided a perfect destination for their traditional “girls night out.”

Kim Lazevnick said the group of five women often meet Thursday nights to go the movies, attend a show or simply cook together.

“We didn’t have to think twice. It was a perfect fit,” she said. “This is a great evening for a good cause.”

Many of the women enjoy going to the library either individually or with their children and that provided added motivation for fundraising for its activities.

Mary Mooney and Mary Pat Appel, also part of the girls club, had fun taking a chance of raffle baskets which ranged from a game theme to a wine basket to a pure cash prize.

“Some of us even brought our significant others with us,” said Lazevnick.

Rae Anusiewicz, a member of the library’s board of directors, said those attending had an understanding of why it is important to support the library financially.

“The library is more than just taking out a book,” she said. “It’s a place for activities, for children to do their homework and for people to learn.”

Travis Mattie and Krista Artim came to the event for a chance to hear “Empire in Decline,” which provided a rock-n-roll backdrop for the event.

Both said they had enjoyed the library as children and were happy their night out could benefit a good cause.

Anusiewicz said the event also provided a chance to get to know others in the community.

“When I got here last year, I didn’t know anyone,” she said. “By the end of the evening, I had met so many people.”

John Roberts, executive director of the library, said the event raised about $2,000 last year and organizers were hoping to raise a similar amount this year.

Roberts looks forward to continuing the tradition next year.​

Travis Mattie, left, of Wyoming, and Krista Artin, of West Wyoming, check in with Wyoming Free Library’s John Roberts, library director, at Sabatini’s Bottle Shoppe for the Wyoming Free Library’s Beer for Books fundraiser on Aug. 22.

https://www.psdispatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/web1_Wyoming-Free-Library-Sabatinis-1.jpgTravis Mattie, left, of Wyoming, and Krista Artin, of West Wyoming, check in with Wyoming Free Library’s John Roberts, library director, at Sabatini’s Bottle Shoppe for the Wyoming Free Library’s Beer for Books fundraiser on Aug. 22. Tony Callaio | For Sunday Dispatch

Nancy Derwin, of West Wyoming, looks over raffle baskets to benefit the Wyoming Free Library.

https://www.psdispatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/web1_Wyoming-Free-Library-Sabatinis-2.jpgNancy Derwin, of West Wyoming, looks over raffle baskets to benefit the Wyoming Free Library. Tony Callaio | For Sunday Dispatch

Nick Prokopchak and Denise Plis chat at Sabatini’s Bottle Shoppe during the Wyoming Free Library fundraiser.

https://www.psdispatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/web1_Wyoming-Free-Library-Sabatinis-3.jpgNick Prokopchak and Denise Plis chat at Sabatini’s Bottle Shoppe during the Wyoming Free Library fundraiser. Tony Callaio | For Sunday Dispatch

Ron Scavone of the band Empire in Decline traveled around the room playing his bass for attendees at the Wyoming Free Library.

https://www.psdispatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/web1_Wyoming-Free-Library-Sabatinis-4.jpgRon Scavone of the band Empire in Decline traveled around the room playing his bass for attendees at the Wyoming Free Library. Tony Callaio | For Sunday Dispatch

Laurie Pisano, of Exeter, was on hand for the Beer for Books fundraiser to benefit the Wyoming Free Library.

https://www.psdispatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/web1_Wyoming-Free-Library-Sabatinis-5.jpgLaurie Pisano, of Exeter, was on hand for the Beer for Books fundraiser to benefit the Wyoming Free Library. Tony Callaio | For Sunday Dispatch