Monsters in the Archives: Special Collections Halloween Open House

Step into Special Collections, located on the second floor of Morris Library, for a Halloween Open House exploring how rare books, manuscripts, images, and ephemera preserve the things people have feared most. From vampires and witches to forbidden knowledge, haunted books, political villains, and misunderstood monsters, visitors will encounter materials that reveal how fear travels through texts—and how power often hides behind the mask of the monstrous.

Come dressed as your favorite literary or film character, villain, Gothic figure, or monster—witch, vampire, zombie, and more—and enjoy an afternoon of spooky stories, collection highlights, vampire trivia, games, prizes, and close-looking activities. Test your supernatural knowledge, craft a monster-themed bookplate, and explore Special Collections displays featuring monsters, magic, hauntings, and other unsettling materials from the archives. Join us on October 29, 2026, from 3–5 p.m. for an afternoon designed to frighten, delight, and perhaps change the way you think about monsters.

Costumes are encouraged!

This in-person event is free and open to the public. Light refreshments will be provided. Registration is encouraged, as space is limited.