Indiana’s Oldest Public Library to Transform Into a Haunted Hall of Oddities This October

Willard Library Transforms Into a Haunted Hall of Oddities This Halloween

Are you a fan of the strange and unusual? Then make plans to visit Willard Library in Evansville this October.

The Legend of the Grey Lady

If you know Evansville’s haunted history, you’ve probably heard of the Grey Lady. No one truly knows who she is, though many believe she may be Louise Carpenter, daughter of library founder Willard Carpenter. Over the years, patrons and staff have reported moved books and furniture, the smell of perfume, unexplained noises, icy chills, and even the feeling of being touched. Some have seen doors opening and closing on their own when no one else was around. Watch the ghost cams here. 

A New Experience for 2025

This year, instead of the usual Grey Lady tours, the staff is offering something new: the Hall of Oddities and Curiosities. The library will be transformed into immersive, spooky spaces you can explore at your own pace. Bring your phone and headphones as exhibits will feature an interactive, audio-driven experience.

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Haunted Spaces to Explore

Three areas of the library will be turned into chilling themed rooms, each with its own eerie vibe:

• Malevolent Chaos (Bayard Room)
• Don’t Play Games After Dark (Basement alcove at the bottom of the stairs)
• Eerie Curiosities: The Haunted Museum (Browning Gallery)

Other highlights include a haunted forest, a witches’ library, eerie museum pieces, and a spiritual room.

Plan Your Visit

The exhibits are open during normal business hours, October 24 - 31, and tours are self-guided. Some of the displays may be too intense for younger children, so parents should plan accordingly. More details can be found on their website.

Read More: View more local Halloween content here.