Everybody make a scream: we’re almost to Halloween! Check out media recs, event highlights and more at your library to spice up this scary season.
Spine-chilling picks
If you want a book or movie to frighten you this season, we’ve got your back. Check out these options:
- In the mood for queer horror? Here’s a list of fantastic options.
- Explore our BIPOC Halloween horror list for some incredible reads from BIPOC authors.
- More of a true crime aficionado? Check out our recommendations for books to pair with your favorite podcasts.
- If you’re someone who loves deep sea horror, dive into these picks.
- Film buffs should traverse Kanopy’s Favorites collection — they’ve got some great movies in there with unlimited viewing.
- Try our scary recommendations for teens and tweens.
Less into horror and more into the coziness of fall? Explore our curated Libby suggestions.
Want a live horror book recommendation?
Our weekly Ask A Librarian series on Instagram and Bluesky will have a special horror-themed edition live on October 23, 2025. Our team of librarians will come up with a personalized reading recommendation at your request!
If you want to see past requests to get an idea of what kind of book recommendations you can ask for, head to our Instagram page and click the story highlight that reads “Ask A Librarian.” There you’ll find all of our recommendations from the past month.
Fun library events
Come on over to your local library and get ready — or celebrate — the scary season! Some options include:
- Crafting events where you can join your local community in creative time — perfect for those making their own costumes!
- Costume storytimes for families at different libraries on various dates
- And more!
Book a small or medium community room for a hauntingly fun gathering
Want to hold a gathering? Don’t forget that you can reserve a small or medium community room for individuals or small groups! Whether you’d like to host a mini costume show with your friends, discuss the history of Halloween over a video call with a relative, write a horror story or teach your kid the moves to the Monster Mash, there’s space for you at the library.
Research terrifying truths
Use library resources to learn about real-life horror stories in the world. You can:
- Search for haunted houses using our house history resources.
- Look into your family history and uncover any skeletons in the closet.
- Find scary stories from history in newspapers from the past.
- Try to spot ghosts in our gallery of historic photographs and media.
October is a spectacular time to lean into creativity and gather with your local community at the library. We hope to see you there!