I Am a Volunteer - The Library Book Sale

Ever since I was a child in Kent, Ohio I have loved the Public Library. My first library card was with the Kent Free Library on Main Street. 

The children's book were in the lower level and I relive the feelings of excitement and fear as I recall standing before the librarian to give an oral report of a book I had just read for the summer reading program.  Jay shares my intense love of books and of the library so it was right that one of the activities we would take up in our retirement was membership in the Friends of the Library at our local branch of the LA City Library.

Today was the Friends of the Library Spring Book Sale

and we helped the other members prepare for this big day.  Throughout the year the library receives donations of used books that we use to stock our small used book store, located inside of the library.  Those that we don't sell in the store or online we save for our periodic book sales.

It takes a lot of work to put on the sale and it is ably directed by our Book Store Manager, Maureen.  We start with unpacking the boxes and boxes of books for set up in the community room. 

Then for three days volunteers organize the books so that they are sorted into categories to make browsing easier.  On sale day, when we are ready to open the doors, the community room has been transformed into a welcoming, attractive bookstore, complete with relaxing music provided by Lee.

The patrons begin lining up outside the door and at 10 am the doors open and in they come. 

There is a hum of activity as people rush to their favorite section.

Jay helps with security and straightening the books as people go through them. 

Readers of all ages come looking for various things.  Children love their section and toddlers are introduced to books. 

Aviva handles the cash register and people are amazed at their bargains...most books selling for $1.00 or less.

In all, it is a wonderful day.  Everyone wins...the library receives some much needed funds, community members find some new books to read or share, the volunteers receive a sense of satisfaction from giving of their time and energy in a meaningful way.  Not a bad way to spend a Saturday!