Phoenix Public Library, Phoenix, AZ. -- October 12, 2009 -- Burton Barr Central Library will host its tenth annual Día de los Muertos exhibit of altars Oct. 26 - Nov. 7 at the library's @Central Gallery, 1221 N. Central Ave.

A free artist reception, hosted by the Friends of the Phoenix Public Library, will be held from 6 to 10 p.m. during the First Friday art walk on Nov. 6.

The exhibit includes 11 altars, ranging from traditional to conceptual, created by a diverse group of artists and community members celebrating the spirit of Mexico's "Day of the Dead."

Día de los Muertos is celebrated in Mexico on Nov. 1 and 2, and is a festive occasion to honor, remember and celebrate the lives of departed loved ones. Families decorate the graves of relatives with flowers and candles and construct home altars to honor the deceased.

Phoenix Public Library is a system of 15 branch libraries and the Burton Barr Central Library. For more information, call 602-262-4636 or visit phoenixpubliclibrary.org. Follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/phxlibrary.