In the Thursday Next series, author Jasper Fforde has created an alternate Britain where literature plays a prominent role in day to day life. Children swap Henry Fielding bubble gum cards; there’s a branch of the police who deal specifically with literature-related crime; and people change their names and personas to that of their favorite author or literary character.

These people would fit right in the EPL’s upcoming Stranger Than Fiction Pre-Mardi-Gras Gala, 7 p.m. on March 1^st at Everett Public Library, 2702 Hoyt Ave.

Come dressed as your favorite author or character–or just as you are–and enjoy a taste of great food from Everett’s finest restaurants and music by The Wild Snohomians. There will be a no-host bar, and prizes for the best costumes. Tickets will also be available at the door.

So help the library raise money, enjoy good food, spirits and music, and indulge your dress-up proclivities in one fell swoop! Personally, I might dress as Stephen King… Hey, I already am!