"This is a fun way to introduce all the great food and beverages available in the greater Elizabethtown area," said Kevin Engle, describing the annual Taste of Western Lancaster County. The event will be held on Friday, Feb. 3, from 4:30 to 9 p.m. at the Elizabethtown Public Library, 10 S. Market St.

It will feature more than 20 vendors stationed throughout the building's three floors, said the library's Brandon Allen, who is co-chairing the event with Engle. "You'll come in and pick up a bag of goodies, and then you're released out into the library to enjoy samples of food and drink, listen to some great music and have fun," he stated.

Confirmed participants include Nissley Vineyards, Harvey's Main Street BBQ, Troegs Independent Brewing, Baum's Bologna and Funk Brewing. Entertainment will be provided by Josh Leik and Don and Peggy Grabowski.

Although the event is called the "Taste of Western Lancaster County," it's not limited to the Elizabethtown area, Engle explained. "The event is named for the geographic location of the library - it's in western Lancaster County - but it's open to people and vendors from anywhere," he shared. "We draw from all over the county and this region."

Members of the public are invited to vote for their favorite participants, and prizes will be awarded based on the most votes received for best entree, best appetizer, best dessert, best beverage and best in show. The winners will receive a plaque to display at their establishment and will be recognized at a banquet on a future date.

The Taste is co-hosted by the library and the Rotary Club of Elizabethtown, with proceeds used to support both organizations. "Rotary will use the money both locally and globally," said Engle, who is representing the club. "Our local projects include supporting ECHOS, our schools, Boy Scout troops and anywhere there is a need in the community. We also support programs nationally and internationally. We support sustainable service projects."

Allen said the library will use proceeds to continue providing services and programming. "Libraries in Pennsylvania are unique, because we don't receive as much funding from the government as libraries in other states do," he remarked. "We'll use the proceeds from this event to keep our doors open, to provide educational programming for kids and to provide materials. We're a nonprofit that is mostly self-funded." This is the library's biggest fundraiser of the year, Allen said, noting that it's been held for 15 years.

The Taste would not be possible without the support of sponsors, including major sponsor White Family Dental, Engle stated. "Come out and support a fantastic event with food, beverages, friends and fellowship," he said. "It's always well attended, and it's always a great time."

A Taste of Western Lancaster County is open to anyone age 21 and older. Tickets may be purchased in person at the Elizabethtown Coffee Company, located within the library, or by searching for "Taste of Western Lancaster County" at http://www.eventbrite.com.