J.K. Rowling’s successful Harry Potter series is beloved by children and adults alike. More than 400 million Harry Potter books have been sold since the series began in 1997.

As in previous years, a celebration of the series will soon return to the Athens-Limestone Public Library. “Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry” will be the theme of this year’s Harry Potter Book Night. The event begins at 6 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 7, at the library at 603 S. Jefferson St., Athens.

“The power of J.K. Rowling’s stories is unique and reaches multiple generations,” said Amanda Coleman, head of youth services at the library. “It’s a time for fans to share the excitement with other people who love the Harry Potter characters as much as they do.”

Fans are encouraged to dress up as their favorite character from the series. Attendees will also have the opportunity to play miniature Quidditch, craft their own owl mail carrier, enjoy Hogwarts-themed snacks, play trivia against other witches and wizards, and more.

“It’s a chance to pass the magic on to new readers who haven’t yet discovered these unforgettable books,” said a release about the event. “This is an event for muggles and wizards of all ages.”

Tickets to Harry Potter Book Night are $5 and available at the library or online through https://bit.ly/2FhGVFZ. Children ages 3 and under are admitted free but must have a ticket. Tickets are expected to sell out.

Library to forgive fines

It’s not exactly magic, but library officials recently announced they will make late fees for all juvenile and adult patrons disappear.

The fine forgiveness initiative marks the library’s four-year anniversary at its new location on Jefferson Street.

“The amnesty is the library’s way to tell children and young adults that we want you back, and we want you reading,” said Library Director Paula Laurita. “Don’t be afraid to return that book you have sitting on your shelf because of fines.”

The fine forgiveness is automatic; parents don’t have to do anything. However, it only applies to late fees, not charges related to lost or damaged items.

Still, the program will wipe the slate clean for hundreds of young library-goers, with fines ranging from 35 cents to more than $100.

For more information, call 256-232-1233.