Palm Beach Library's 'I Read Dead People' Event Returns Free

The Palm Beach County Library System brings back its popular "I Read Dead People" haunted literary experience for its fourth consecutive year. This immersive theatrical event, recognized with the 2026 Innovative Program or Service Award from the Florida Library Association, merges literature and performance. Library staff embody famous authors from beyond the grave, presenting their best-known horror or thriller short stories.

Past events featured Edgar Allan Poe reciting "The Raven" and Shirley Jackson reading from "The Haunting of Hill House." Library branches create thematic settings, such as fossil displays for Michael Crichton or yellow wallpaper for Charlotte Perkins Gilman. Attendees move in groups between decorated rooms to experience each author's presentation.

This year, the Lantana Road Branch will present new chilling tales Saturday, October 3, at 6:00 p.m. The Greenacres Branch will host a bilingual version Saturday, November 7, at 7:00 p.m., with stories in English and Spanish. Both events are free.

Residents can find details on upcoming performances and interactive events at www.pbclibrary.org/events.