For Halloween 2024, the Peggy Crabtree Library and Edge Lab transformed the library into a Wonderland-themed showcase for students to explore. Organized with literary inspiration in mind, the staff chose “Alice in Wonderland” as the perfect theme, immersing students in a magical journey through some of the book’s most iconic scenes. The decorations captured both the whimsical and chaotic charm of Wonderland, setting the stage for an unforgettable experience that students were invited to explore on Halloween day.
The tour began with a trip through a “Wonderland” tunnel, echoing Alice’s entrance into this fantastical world. Each part of the library was filled with small, thoughtful details—Christan Chamberlain, one of the masterminds behind the setup and the Edge Lab Facilitator, described them as “little tchotchke items” and nodded to the story. One of the most popular spots was the
Mad Hatter’s tea party, decorated with colorful cushions, teapots, and a “Merry Unbirthday” banner hanging above. Students and staff alike were drawn to this lively scene, where the library staff, dressed as beloved characters, invited everyone to join in on the “fun and chaos” of the Mad Hatter’s world.
From the tea party, students could wander deeper into Wonderland, encountering the caterpillar among oversized mushrooms crafted by student aides, as well as singing plants that played a “concert” for Alice. Each element was carefully designed to recreate Wonderland’s enchanted atmosphere, allowing students to experience Alice’s journey as she navigated her way through magical gardens. Chamberlain explained how each area had its own charm, with elements like the croquet field in the Queen of Hearts’ garden, where Alice narrowly escaped her fate. The attention to detail and the combination of student-made props brought a
unique, immersive feel to the library.
With contributions from both staff and students, the decorations turned the library into a place of play and literary celebration. The effort put into each scene showcased the creativity and dedication of everyone involved. “The kids have done an amazing job to help put this together,” said Chamberlain, crediting the students’ artistic contributions to the success of the event. As Xavier Brooks, the Highland Fling’s Editor-in-Chief puts it, this year’s decorations were “truly amazing,” leaving students eagerly anticipating what next Halloween will bring.
Plans are underway to decorate the library for Thanksgiving and Christmas, but the details remain hidden and won’t be revealed until the week before each holiday.