by Michelle Hozey

Created on: August 23, 2010

The Friends of the Library is an organization of local citizens who want to improve their library. The money they raise is used for the morale of library staff, sculptures or artwork donations to improve the look of the library, special events at the library, building or improvement donations and sometimes materials for the library. The Friends meet periodically to discuss fundraisers and uses for the money, as well as to plan events for the local community to enjoy at the library.

Many libraries have an ongoing book sale. Sometimes in the front of the library, or in a separate room, you can purchase books, movies, magazines, movies or CDs. Other libraries hold book sales during special community events, such as fairs or festivals. The proceeds go to the Friends of the Library to enrich the library and the surrounding community.

The materials in the Friends’ book sale usually sell for an extremely reasonable price. Sometimes you can purchase gently used hardback books for only $1 each, depending on how your library prices things. Some days you may find nothing at the Friends of the Library book sale. Other days you may find yourself wishing for a suitcase on wheels to roll home your purchases.

Look for books or other materials that appear in good condition. Many of the materials that appear in the library book sale have been donated by members of the community. Other items have been withdrawn from the library’s collection because of a lack of circulation, damage, or any number of reasons. Keep away from books that smell moldy or have mold growing on the chipboard covers. Cheap books are great, but they aren’t so wonderful when they are smelling up your home and causing allergy aggravations.

Withdrawn audio visual materials, such as CDs, DVDs or VHS tapes, should be inspected for damage before purchase. Those items have most likely seen a great deal of use and are subject to scratches, dents or twisted tape.

The Friends of the Library book sale can be a great place to pick up books for a book business. The books, if in good condition, can be sold on eBay, at flea markets or at your own bookstore. Sometimes rare treasures can be found in the bottoms of the bins that collectors would find interesting. If nothing else, Friends of the Library book sales are one of the best places to build up your own home library. 

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