Annual New Year’s party to benefit Carson City Library

Carson City revelers can ring in the New Year in the grand style of the Big Apple during the annual New York New Year’s Eve Black and White Ball 6-10 p.m. Dec. 31.

Party-goers will celebrate with the East Coast as the ball drops on Times Square at 9 p.m. as part of the celebration, which benefits Carson City Library.

“You can party here, then go off and ring in the New Year any way you want,” said Joe Spencer, vice president of Friends the Carson City Library, the host of the event.

The formal affair is the featured fundraiser of the year, raising $10,000 to $15,000 for the library each year, Spencer said. This year, he said, it will kick off a series of events to recognize the library’s 50th anniversary in 2016.

“We’re excited for it,” said Library Director Sena Loyd. “It helps keep the library running by raising money for programs like book leases, e-books, the summer reading program and teen leadership council.”

Spencer, who also serves as master of ceremonies for the party, said it’s a good way to meet officials from the library and better understand how the funds are used.

“People can mix and mingle with supporters in the community,” he said. “It gives them a chance to see where their support is going.”

In addition to supporting a worthwhile cause, Spencer said, it’s also a good time.

“There’s music. There’s dancing. There’s a balloon drop and a champagne toast by Mayor Bob Crowell,” he said. “It’s a fun way to support the community and engage with like-minded people.”

He said “wonderful prizes” have also been donated for the silent auction.

Tickets are $50 a person or $375 for a table of eight. A welcome hour with a no-host bar will begin at 5 p.m. followed by a tri-tip and salmon dinner at the Carson Plaza Event Center, 211 E. Ninth St.

“They take good care of us at the Plaza,” Spencer said. “We appreciate that.”

Tickets can be purchased at the Browsers Corner Bookstore, 711 E. Washington St., or at the door.