‘Noir @ the Bar’ to hail Guillebeau’s ‘MAD Librarian’

MADISON – Librarians at Madison Public Library aren’t insulted by local author Michael Guillebeau’s new book, “MAD Librarian.” In fact, they’re hosting a party, “Noir @ the Bar,” to celebrate the book’s release.

In “MAD Librarian,” Guillebeau writes about a librarian in a small North Alabama town who steals to keep her library alive.

The librarian, Serenity, begins helping herself to funds that local politicians have squandered for their own personal ‘rainy day.’ “With money Serenity amasses, she can build a library to thrill readers everywhere,” Guillebeau said. “Problem is, those politicians aren’t too thrilled to see their money disappearing.”

The politicians plan their revenge. “They plan to do anything to get it back,” Guillebeau said. “One of our most precious institutions is under threat.”

Guillebeau, a Madison resident since 1962, has three published novels and two anthologies. “Library Journal” named his first book, “Josh Whoever,” as a “Mystery Debut of the Month.” His last book, “Eight Mystery Writers You Should Be Reading Now,” won the 2017 Silver Falchion Award for “Best Mystery Anthology.”

Madison library’s own Noir @ the Bar mystery series will celebrate MAD librarians. Librarians, book lovers and people who like masquerade parties will enjoy the event at Rocket Republic, 289 Production Ave. in Madison on Nov. 30 at 7 p.m.

Any librarian from any library will receive a free beer or glass of wine.

Danielle Bryant will perform for the event. Beast Mode food truck will sell concessions. Rocket Republic will sell a special Lie-Brewrain’s Ink beer, and a portion of proceeds will benefit Madison Public Library. All guests can vie for prizes, including “Best Noir Costume” and “Best MAD Librarian Costume.”

Guillebeau will sign copies of “MAD Librarian.” Half of all income from book sales will go to Awesome Foundation for Library Innovation, a foundation of librarians who contribute money to fund small, innovative library projects.

The librarian with the best idea for an improvement at her/his library will receive a $100 prize. The librarian who travels the farthest will receive a $100 prize.

“Come out to Rocket Republic on Nov. 30 to raise a glass to toast the women and men who fight the battle every day to keep our communities educated and progressive,” Guillebeau said.

For more information, email michaelguillebeau@gmail.com or awood@hmcpl.org.