The new Portsmouth Public Library will officially open its doors to patrons with a community open house in December, but those who want to contribute to the cause can get a sneak preview at a gala on Saturday, Nov. 11.

The event will feature appetizers, a cash bar, and an evening of live musical entertainment, featuring a steel drum band, blues and jazz. Guests will go home with a keepsake program. The event will run from 7 to 10 p.m. at the new library, located at 175 Parrott Ave. Tickets are $50. 

The 38,000-square-foot library, designed as a “green building” to maximize the use of natural light and fresh air, will include meeting rooms and presentation spaces for community use, an Internet café, a courtyard surrounded by enclosed porches, and small reading nooks scattered throughout the building.

Tickets for the gala event can be purchased beginning Tuesday, Oct. 10, at Portsmouth City Hall, Portsmouth Regional Hospital, Portsmouth Public Library, Hannaford Bros., The Portsmouth Herald, Spinnaker Point Recreational Facility, and at the main offices of Portsmouth High School, Portsmouth Middle School and Little Harbor School.

For more information, call the Portsmouth Public Library at 603-427-1540.