Library smackdown! Yellowknife, Corner Brook libraries face off to draw in new readers

If you're heading to the Corner Brook or Yellowknife public libraries this month, you're likely to hear quiet in the book stacks, but deep inside there's a battle brewing.

The two libraries are facing off in a 'Library Smackdown' all October long and the winner will gain eternal bragging rights.

The key to glory? Signing up the most new patrons at the library, checking out the highest number of books, and getting the most people participating in library programs.

According to Yellowknife librarian and ex-pat Newfoundlander John Mutford, the idea came to mind when he realized it was Canadian Library Month and decided to do something fun to celebrate.

"Looking at population size, I knew Corner Brook was similar in size to Yellowknife and being from Newfoundland myself, I knew they'd be game," Mutford said.

While the challenge is ultimately for a good cause, that doesn't mean both sides aren't taking it seriously.

A poster made by the Yellowknife public library isn't mincing words either, claiming the city wants a better claim to fame than Chicken McNuggets

But Corner Brook isn't ready to back down either.

Librarian Sandee Harnum says that they're not ready to go down without a fight.

"Oh, we're bringing it on," she said.

Harnum said they've been all over Facebook and Twitter advertising the challenge and there will be prizes up for grabs throughout the month for frequent visitors. 

The competition begins on Oct. 1 and interested parties can drop into either public library to get more information.