Whether you are invited to a Halloween party, planning to go trick-or-treat, or just interested in scaring neighborhood kids and dogs, one thing is for sure.

You're going to need a costume.

The library is full of sources for you to draw inspiration from. We have books for all ages and creativity levels. If all you have lying around is duct tape or an old hoodie, we have the books for you. If you're feeling more adventurous, get into Steampunk or Cosplay. And of course if you're a costume professional, we have all the resources you need for sidewalk, stage or screen at the Library for the Performing Arts.

Costume reference books and the Picture Collection can be great things to consult if you are looking for visual examples on which to base your homemade design.

With your library card you can access Berg Fashion Library, where you can learn more about the origins of this form of masquerade dress in North America.

What are you going as this year?

See more of Larry Rocioppo's photos of trick-or-treaters in the 1970s.