Of the many great things to come out of the Southwest Michigan craft beer industry, one of the most captivating has been its ability to inspire collaborative and innovative thinking, while also create unique products and ways to view the community.
It's not just patrons of area breweries that are finding themselves inspired to do something different and exciting, local institutions are also picking up on the vibe, as is currently on display with the Kalamazoo Public Library's first Booktoberfest--a six-week- long event celebrating learning, creative thinking, community history and, of course, craft beer.
"We feel that our patrons appreciate the opportunity to come together to celebrate what makes Kalamazoo unique," says Kevin King of the Kalamazoo Public Library. "I expect the response will be great because these programs will provide patrons the chance to get close to the individuals who are crafting the beers, an opportunity you do not often have visiting the breweries. When we proposed this program idea to the participating breweries, all of them agreed that it was an excellent idea! Not one hesitated."
Breweries such as Tibbs Brewing Co., Arcadia Ales, Bell’s Brewery, and Gonzo’s BiggDogg Brewing Co. are all on board with programs throughout the event as are other area establishments such West Michigan Beer Tours, the Alamo Draft House, Rhino Media, and more.
Booktoberfest began Sept. 16 with an interactive history lesson that took a look at the area's storied brewery culture.
Booktoberfest wraps up on Oct. 28 with a local brewery panel discussion at the Washington Square branch library, moderated by John Liberty, co-owner of
West Michigan Beer Tours.
In between, event-goers can enjoy home brewing events sponsored by Bell's, a screening of Rhino Media's Michigan Beer Film, a beer and food pairing featuring the beer of Gonzo's BigDogg Brewing, two book discussion nights, and other fun programs either hosted by breweries or taking place at the library.
"The great breweries of Kalamazoo have brews that are just as engaging and nuanced as many of the great stories in literature. It seemed natural to us at KPL that enjoying both at the same time would be an amazing combination," King says. "Most people enjoy sharing their love of good books with friends, so why not do it with a pint of delicious Kalamazoo beer?"
Two beers in particular will be shared by those taking part in Booktoberfest. At Bilbo's Pizza The Legend of Pumpkin Hollow will be on tap Oct. 6 when the brewpub hosts a discussion of
Round Ireland with a Fridge by Tony Hawks.
Tibbs Brewing has also worked up a special offering, Overdue Brew, a chocolate stout which it has been serving during the month of September. Both breweries are offering these beers for a $1 off the regular price when customers show their KPL card.
For more information on Booktoberfest, and a complete listing of events please visit here.
Writer: Jeremy Martin, Second Wave Media
Source: Kevin King, Kalamazoo Public Library
Enjoy this story?
Sign up for free solutions-based reporting in your inbox each week.