Friends of the Library prep for spring book sale

Those in the midst of spring cleaning or staring at a shelf of rarely used books have a place to drop off their unwanted books.

The Friends of the Austin Public Library and American Association of University Women are gearing up for their Spring Used Book Sale, which will be held from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. May 3 and 4 at the Austin Public Library. A bag sale will also be held from 3:30 to 4:30 May 4.

The organizations are looking for donated books, DVDs, VHS and audio tapes and music through April 27. However, items such as magazines, textbooks, Reader’s Digest condensed books, encyclopedias or items stored in damp places cannot be accepted.

Donations can be delivered directly to the library.

“Last year’s spring used book sale raised $6,600,” said Dorothy Krob, publicity chairperson for the Friends of the Library. “That blew all records out of the water as far as books donated and money raised.”

Proceeds from the sale provide funds for AAUW scholarships at Riverland and projects and programs at the Austin Public Library including author visits, book and computer purchases, Page Turners events, the summer reading program, the Poet Laureate visit and a new stage.

The public is also encouraged to become members of the Friends of the Library for $10 per family. This membership helps fund the listed programs and gives admittance to the library used book sale pre-sale in the fall. Membership forms are available at the library desk.