ROBERTSDALE, Ala. — It sounds like the plot of a horror novel.

The staff of the Robertsdale Public Library will close shop at 3 p.m. Oct. 20.

So far, so good.

But, at 6 p.m. the same night, the library will be invaded, not by bookworms but by children and adults wearing costumes. There will be games, hot dogs, chips and drinks for the little ghouls and goblins (princesses super heroes and hoboes are welcome too). The fun lasts to 8 p.m.

It’s not a horror novel at all. It’s the third annual “Halloween Fun Night,”

The event is is open to all children 12 and younger, Library Director

Cynthia Nall says. The children need not come in costume, but Nall says, “We hope they do.”

“I want to have an old-fashioned safe, Halloween,” said Nall, adding that there will be broom ride races, sack races, and a large pumpkin in the oak tree outside to provide a few (but not too many) shivers of fun fright. The event is free of charge.

There will be crafts, including making a bookmark or a “monster mask.”

“The Robertsdale Volunteer Fire Department will be doing hay rides as well,” said Nall.

As it gets dark, local people known to Nall will decorate the backs of their cars and pickup trucks for “trunk or treat,” a chance for youngsters to get a bag full of tasty candy. All the people distributing (rumor has it that Robertsdale Mayor Charles Murphy will be there) the candy are known to Nall, so it will be safe for youngsters.

“The idea is that this is safe and everybody has fun,” said Nall.

Nall and the library staff will be in costume. Nall isn’t sure what she is going as, but watch for her and her dog, “Maddie” dressed as characters from “101 Dalmatians.” This will be a good trick as Maddie is a spaniel.

Of course, Nall has a “queen” costume as well and appropriate gear for Maddie.

All the games are set so all participants will have prizes.

“They are all winners,” said Nall. “The idea is to have a safe environment to have fun.”

Canine members of the community can visit the library Friday, Oct. 24 from 10 a.m. to noon or the “Dog Gone Howl ‘oween Costume Contest. “ There is a $5 donation to enter a dog, and proceeds will go to The Haven, a no-kill animal shelter. The library will be closed that day.

There will be contests for the “Most Spooktacular” costume, “The Funniest” costume and there will be a “Dog and Owner look Alike” contest.

“The Haven is bringing their van, and there will be information on adoptable animals.

There will also be a box for donations to The Haven.

“We need things like bleach, paper towels, dog toys, stainless steel dog bowls, leashes and collars.

And there is no need for felines to start howling.

“We need cat things, too,” said Nall.