The Green Hills Public Library swapped bookshelves for a boogie wonderland as it hosted its first-ever Roller Disco Day on Saturday afternoon.
The highly anticipated event transformed the library’s First Floor Meeting Room at 10331 Interlochen Drive in Palos Hills into a retro roller rink, complete with music, a disco ball, and a nostalgic dose of community fun.
“It’s something new to try on a snowy Saturday afternoon, and honestly, we were struggling a little bit, but it’s fun,” said Joanna Liszka, of Palos Hills, who skated alongside her daughter, Emily, 3, and son, Anthony, 5.
Organizing the event were the tag team duo of Green Hills Public Library’s Adult Programming Librarian Olivia Mullenax, and Youth Programming Librarian, Josie Kandich.
“In the past, Green Hills has hosted mini golf where we closed the library and turned different sections into a golf course,” Mullenax said. “This year, we wanted to try something different that involved transforming a library space but didn’t disrupt our core services. After researching, we found a company that brings all the materials to create a roller rink.”
The event featured four different skate sessions throughout the day. Each session accommodated up to 30 skaters, and all participants signed a liability waiver before entering the rink. Skates were provided for adults and children ages 3 and up, but attendees could also bring their own.
For those under 18, a parent or guardian had to sign the waiver, and children under 10 had to be accompanied by an adult.
“Roller skating can be cost-prohibitive, so we wanted to provide this fun activity that is engaging for all ages,” Mullenax said. “It’s also a great way to beat some of the cabin fever that people usually feel around this time of year in February.”
The community’s excitement for Roller Disco Day was evident, with all sessions reaching full capacity. Around 120 people laced up their skates for this unique library experience.
“Some of my favorite events to plan and host involve nostalgia, and roller skating reminds me of when I was a kid,” Mullenax said. “I love to see happy families and people coming together with their friends and neighbors. We’ve had petting zoos, dances, bingo, and more, but we’ve never done anything quite like roller skating.”
The Green Hills Public Library has long been a hub for more than just books, and this event was another example of how libraries can be a place for creativity, play, and community building.
“Many people have some experience with roller skating or have heard about it but never had the chance to try it,” Mullenax added. “The library isn’t just for reading or quiet activities, it’s a third space where people of all ages can try something new. You never know what you can learn about yourself here.”
Gliding around the library’s roller rink like a pro was 9-year-old, Elsie Gibson, of Palos Hills.
“She absolutely loves skating,” her mother, Kim Gibson said. “She’s taken lessons in the past and really enjoys it. Now that she owns rollerblades, it’s become even more of a hobby. She’s so good that she’ll skate around, a book in hand, and read while she skates.”
For those who missed out, the library’s lineup of engaging events continues throughout the year, ensuring there’s always something new to discover beyond the bookshelves.
The post Roller disco derby rolls into Green Hills Public Library appeared first on Southwest Regional Publishing.