Literacy Project Guest Bartender Night at Larkspur

Librarians let go for Literacy Project
Children’s specialists from Vail and Avon featured in Larkspur’s guest bartender series

As it turns out, librarians make excellent bartenders. They know how to tell a good story, control a crowd and become friends with even the toughest patrons. They’re firm, yet likable.

Cricket Pylman and Kari Thorne are no exceptions. These two children’s specialists – from the Town of Vail and Avon Public libraries, respectively – will show off their skills on Wednesday at Larkspur’s guest bartender series.

“It’s all in the name of The Literacy Project,” said Pylman, whose popularity among Vail’s toddlers is legendary. “I wouldn’t sling drinks like this unless it was for a good cause.”

This year, Larkspur launched a new series to help non-profits raise money while bringing in off-season business. The guest bartenders work alongside Larkspur's staff, shaking cocktails for the cause and receiving a share of tips.

“We are thrilled to have two of our best known and much loved supporters behind the bar,” said Colleen Gray, executive director of The Literacy Project. “So much of our free tutoring happens in the libraries, and Cricket and Kari have been our cheerleaders.”

The Literacy Project provides free tutoring and services to adults and children in Eagle County through a variety of programs including individual sessions, classroom applications, book delivery, early childhood education and workplace literacy skills. More than 500 people benefit from the programs each year.

“Literacy is an issue we all must accomplish in order to become positive members of society,” said Gray. “We believe that English language reading and speaking skills can be achieved by everyone.”

Organizers from the Literacy Project will show a short film that demonstrates its free tutoring programs and services.

In addition to tips, a silent auction featuring items from Roxy, The Bookworm, Larkspur and other local businesses will contribute to the fundraiser. Larkspur also has donated one chef’s table dinner for four.
For more information or to make a donation to The Literacy Project, call 949-5026 or visit www.literacyprojecteaglecounty.org