Although the last Harry Potter book, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, was published four years ago, the last installment of the film series will finally be released this week.  (See related article with quotes from our President and Director Siobhan Reardon and Children's Librarian Joel Nichols: http://www.philly.com/philly/news/20110710_For__Harry_Potter__fans__an_era_is_ending.html)

Somehow, with the movies lagging behind the books, it has allowed us to keep the presence of the characters in our lives. From our first encounter with Harry back in 1997, we were charmed by his dual place in the world: his life as a muggle (human born) and his life as a wizard at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. The truth is that beyond the special effects and the magic, the real attraction to the series is the eternal theme of the battle between good and evil. It is also the story of a boy who feels so out of place and who thinks that no one else in the world is like him.  In other words, the story of many adolescents.  When Harry does discover two people with whom he has something in common, a lifetime friendship is forged with Ron and Hermione.  So it is with excitement tinged with sadness that we await this week's film: Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, Part 2.  To get the most out of your viewing experience, why not refresh your memory by re-reading earlier books in the series or by seeing the previous film releases. They are all available at your local library!