PHOTOPHILE- Midnight madness: Muggles gather for final book release

Barnes & Noble Bookstore supplies Harry Potter fans with the final book of the seven-part series.
PHOTO BY ERIN HEISTERMAN

For the release of J.K. Rowling's seventh and final book in the Harry Potter series, fans of all ages got in line to grab their copy. Lines began to form early on July 20 to ensure die-hard fans the chance to receive the long-awaited book at midnight.

The Barracks Road Barnes & Noble, along with many other local booksellers, has been promoting the release of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows since the start of summer and even hosted a "Midnight Magic" party to help the pre-release hours pass pleasantly. Muggles (non-magical people in Potter-speak) of all ages came out, many dressed in Harry garb, to ensure they received their reserved copy the minute it was released.

Around 1pm, bookstore employee Luke Bashore doles out tickets.

Friends Brian Poulsla and Elizabeth Jordan show their excitement.

Gineane Stalfort stops by Barnes & Noble with her sons, Will and Sam, in order to pick up a free pair of Harry Potter glasses for the party later that night.

Hundreds gathered outside Barnes & Noble just before midnight.

Aiden, Mary Jo, Brendan, and Patrick Burke get in the spirit in costume.

Mothers Jenny Moody and Ann Marx (with daughter Emma) braved the crowds coffee in hand.

Among the first to receive their copies, Dawn Bradshaw and Christine Esposito hurry home to begin reading.

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