Judging from the energy I’ve noticed around Seattle Sounders games lately, I’m willing to bet there are a good number of Seattleites excited for this years’ World Cup that begins Thursday. It is Brazil’s second time hosting this momentous tournament (it first hosted in 1950) and is set to have 64 matches played in 12 cities across the country. Thirty two countries will compete this year, including the U.S.A.
If you’re happiest watching the most widely viewed sporting event in the world in the company of fellow fans, you’re in luck this year and need to look no farther than the Seattle Public Library. Whether you’re a fan of Brazil or Germany, the countries with the most World Cup appearances, or Uruguay, the first World Cup Champion, there will be someone in the crowd cheering for your team with you.
Sports in the library? City Librarian Marcellus Turner said he thought it would be a kick (so to speak) to have the games available for library patrons, particularly those who might not have ready access.
This is not the first time the Seattle Public Library has hosted sports viewing parties. When the Seattle Seahawks were headed to the Super Bowl earlier this year, the Seattle Public Library had the final two games up on its 15 foot by 20 foot big screen. Though one must note that the Super Bowl was different—most fans were wearing the same color jersey. And soccer seems to bring out passionate rivalries.
But what I recall from City Librarian Turner was that during the Super Bowl fans were respectful of the occasional pro-Broncos holler (gasp!) and I believe we can expect the same for the World Cup at the Library. I’ve heard of married couples, one from Italy and one from Spain, who still shake hands after watching a soccer match and I trust in Seattle sportsmanship.
The Library will be the place for fans everywhere, as Turner adds, fans shouldn’t fear a red card for team spirit. He says, “No one will be shushed for cheering.”
Three different library locations will host World Cup viewing parties in June and July, including the championship game on Sunday, July 13. Locales include the Central Library at 1000 Fourth Ave., the Northgate Branch, 10548 Fifth Ave., and the High Point Branch, 3411 S.W. Raymond Street. Everyone is welcome to attend, free-of-charge, with seating available on a first-come, first-served basis. Food and coffee will also be available for purchase at the Chocolati Café on level 3 of the Central Library.
Doors open 30 minutes before each match begins. If a match lasts past library closing time, the venue will remain open until the game ends. In the case of the U.S. vs Germany match at 9 a.m. Thursday, June 26, the Northgate Branch meeting room will open early.
Check the Library Events Calendar to get the matches on your calendar.