For the seventh year in a row, Douglas County Libraries (303-791-READ, DouglasCountyLibraries.org) is bringing first-rate professional Shakespearean theater and activities to Douglas County, free of charge .

This year, Douglas County Libraries is offering Shakespeare at the Ranch at Civic Green Park in Highlands Ranch. The event includes threefree professional performances of As You Like It on July 24-26, and a family-oriented celebration called Midsummer Merriment on Saturday, July 26. Shakespeare at the Ranch is part of the Douglas County Libraries Shakespeare Festival, featuring Bard-oriented events at Douglas County Libraries every July.

Douglas County Libraries is seeking special event volunteers for the festival. For more information, contact Elizabeth Kelsen Huber at 303-791-READ. Library volunteers gain new job skills, personal growth, and community involvement. Volunteer hours can also be applied to high school graduation requirements, or to fulfill community service obligations.

To date, the sponsors of the 2008 Shakespeare Festival include The Gay & Lesbian Fund for Colorado, Metro District of Highlands Ranch, Cañon Catering, Colorado Community Newspapers, Frederic Printing, Highlands Ranch Community Association, Highlands Ranch Cultural Affairs Association, IREA, LMC Solutions, and YourHub. To learn more about all of the events that make up the Shakespeare Festival, stop by your library, call 303-791-READ, or visit us online at DouglasCountyLibraries.org.