Remember those days when it was uncool to be a nerd? I’m picturing the classic ‘80s guy with high-water pants, suspenders, a pocket protector, and glasses with duct tape wrapped around the nose bridge.

Luckily we’ve learned to embrace geekiness, and what better day to celebrate than on May 4th, known to many as Star Wars Day! Don’t have plans yet? Drop by Polk County Public Library in Columbus between 5-7 p.m. for some super geeky fun.

In addition to Star Wars activities such as glowstick light sabers and a photo booth featuring BB-8, everyone’s favorite character from The Force Awakens, there will be plenty of entertainment options.

Interested in computers, technology, or video games? We will have a MaKey MaKey station set up where you can use the invention kits to turn everyday objects into touchpads and combine them with the Internet. You can also try your hand at stop motion animation, play some fun new games on the Nintendo Wii U, or take apart old computers in our Destruction Zone.

Crafts more your thing? Make a superhero perler bead keychain or a steampunk bookmark with feathers, keys, and watch gears.

If you’re into comic books, you’ll definitely want to check out Steve Barr’s cartooning workshops. He’ll be teaching lessons on how to draw monsters, aliens, animals, and more. Asheville’s Batman will also be there posing for photos. And while you’re at it, check out the library’s graphic novel collection! We have everything from The Walking Dead for adults to the Jedi Academy series by Jeffrey Brown for kids.

Be sure to come in costume! There will be a contest with prizes for the top three “best dressed” attendees. And come hungry as well… Pizza and drinks will be served. Did I mention that everything is free? May the 4th be with you!

Jen Pace Dickenson is the Youth Services Librarian at Polk County Public Library. For information about the library’s resources, programs, and other services, visit www.polklibrary.org or call (828) 894-8721.