Dispatches: Library's 'Delicious Destinations' Fundraiser a Success (PHOTOS)

Over 300 local residents attended the inaugural Delicious Destinations fundraiser at Saturday evening.

The Ports of Call theme led attendees from Barcelona to Shanghai, Venice and the Caribbean with samplings of exotic local foods, wines and beers from each region.

San Marino Dance group, opera singer Melodee Fernandez, steel drum player Emile Borde, world known Guzheng player, Celia Liu and classical Spanish guitarists Westside Duo and other talented entertainers provided an unforgettable journey for San Marino patrons of the arts.

While the event was a night of food and fun, it had a serious purpose--raising funds to help compensate for state budget cuts that have resulted in the library cutting programs and hours, such as being closed on Fridays.

This is the latest San Marino story in our Dispatches series, which chronicles how San Marino is faring in the midst of the economic crisis--whether positive or negative.

"The economic recession has affected many state and municipal budgets, and San Marino is no exception," Cindy Chan, Development Director for the San Marino Public Library Foundation, told Patch via email. "The , as a supporting arm of the library, seeks to assist the library to continue to provide quality service and programs to the community."

Ultimately, the library foundation organized "Delicious Destinations" in order to establish an endowment fund for the library.

A silent auction for items like a stay at the Four Seasons in Hawaii also helped bring in funds for the evening.

The exact total raised by the event is still being calculated, but event attendance exceeded expectations.

The Library Foundation and organizers did an "outstanding" job, said City Librarian Ann Dallavalle.

Did you attend Delicious Destinations? What was your favorite part of the event? Tell us in the comment box below.