To the Editor:

The 10th Battle of the Books was held on Saturday, April 5th in the Meeting Room of the Library and as always, was a huge success.  The talent of Newtown’s young people continues to awe and inspire us. All of the teams exhibited great teamwork and proved that they were up to the challenge. The questions were not easy!  We want to recognize the participants for working so hard to achieve such a mastery of teeny- tiny details on the four Nutmeg books. We also want to thank the parents and friends who helped them along the way.

While the Battle is sponsored by the CH Booth Library, it would not happen without the generous support of our community.   Thanks to Caraluzzi’s and Big Y for donating most of the refreshments and paper goods. We really appreciate your strong community support. Kudos to Heather at the Caraluzzi’s Bakery for creating such a gorgeous and tasty cake. Thank you to the Friends of the CH Booth Library who donated books that were given to all of the participants.

Liz Arneth brought the idea of the Battle to our library back in 2005 and continues to be a key player in the competition, taking on the role of moderator.  John Renjilian has also been involved for many years and this year was a judge. It is wonderful to have the continued support of these veteran organizers.  Ian Wilson was the score keeper and Kevin Arther was our timer.  Both kept the event running smoothly and fairly.  Meghan Delp was our photographer and her sister Lizzie was on hand to research challenges that might occur, two more very important positions.

If a closed library and too much snow can’t stop the Battle from happening, nothing will. We will definitely be back for a Battle in 2015 and since the Demented Bunnies, our three-peat champions are retiring, we can’t wait to see who will win in 2015!

Sincerely,

Alana Bennison, Children’s Librarian

Kim Weber, Young Adult/Teen Librarian

CH Booth Library

25 Main Street, Newtown                    April 7, 2014