Streator library to host Carnegie Challenge mini-golf fundraiser

The Streator Public Library is turning its space into an 18-hole mini-golf course for the third year in a row, inviting the public to its annual Carnegie Challenge Mini Golf FUN Raiser.

The event is set from 6 to 9 p.m. Friday, Jan. 31, and from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 1. The fundraiser will benefit the library’s initiatives, including children’s programs, new books and updates to its facility and technology.

The fundraiser will kick off Friday night with an adults-only event, giving people an opportunity to socialize and get a first look at the items available for bidding.

Tickets for this preview night are $20 and include snacks, beverages, early access to raffle items and a silent auction.

On Saturday, the event will be open to all ages, with tickets priced at $5. This more family-friendly day will feature mini-golf, raffles, a 50/50 drawing and a silent auction.

Sponsors for the event include SOCU (the title sponsor), All Types Fence, Baker Farms, Blue-eyed Rascal, Chismarick Realty (Patrick Chismarick), Danchris Nursery, Dieken-Straughn Farm Management, Edward Jones (Ben Hiltibrand), First State Bank VISTA Travel Club, Hardscrabble Lions Club, M.G. Gulo & Associates Ltd., Midland States Bank, OSF Healthcare, US Foods, Solon-Telford Funeral Home, Stertil ALM Corp, Streator Home Savings Bank, Streatorland Historical Society, Theresa Solon (State Farm) and Vactor.

The silent auction will feature a variety of items, including a three-hour bowling party at the Streator Elks, a round of golf at Anderson Fields, a private art class at the Streator Public Library and an autographed photo of the Chicago Cubs' current catcher Miguel Amaya.

Raffle prizes include a gift card from Zoila’s Coffee, movie tickets and a popcorn bucket from Streator Eagle 6, and a backpack full of goodies from the Constellation La Salle Station Clean Energy Center. Other prizes up for grabs include a JBL Flip 6 Bluetooth speaker and Raycon wireless earbuds.

Director Melissa Badger said the event’s fundraising committee has worked hard to organize the event, which she believes not only supports the library itself but also helps foster a sense of community in Streator.

“It’s heartwarming to see local businesses come together again to create something so special for Streator,” Badger said.

Tickets can be bought in advance at the Streator Public Library, 130 S. Park St., or at the door during the event.

For more information, call the library at 815-672-2729.