The Barrie Public Library's first fall Book Sale was a huge success. A pop-up event on Saturday, Oct. 19 raised $2,545.
Around 365 book lovers of all ages enjoyed searching through the tables of pre-loved items to stock up their book shelves for the winter. Powered by a team of dedicated volunteers, the now twice-yearly book sales have proven to be extremely popular events.
"It's really amazing to see the continued support from the community," said Katelyn Lees, Philanthropy and Resource Development Specialist with the Barrie Public Library. "We had a line-up nearly all day! Every time we finish a book sale we have people asking us when the next one is. Barrie is definitely a city of readers and library lovers."
The sale included a blend of items recently removed from the library’s collection, as well as donations from our community that were accepted on Thursday and Friday in anticipation of the sale. Items included adult fiction and non-fiction books, children’s books, movies, video games and CDs priced between $0.50 to $4.
"We are absolutely thrilled with the turn out,” said Samantha Coladipietro, lead volunteer for this year’s two sales. “I am such a passionate library supporter and this is a really fun way for me to give back. It's amazing to see all the people who show up to support their library and get some new reads.”
In times like these when wallets are a little tighter, having affordable options for entertainment is critical. The library is an invaluable resource for the community when the cost of living is high.
"Having a library card and getting everything for free is definitely the most affordable option for leisure and entertainment," continued Lees, laughing. "But we know most book worms do have a collection at home too. This gives people an option to freshen up their shelves while helping the library advance our services and plan for new locations."
Proceeds from the event help support the library plan for future branches, as well as expand opportunities for lifelong learning through the Library of Things collection and tools in the Creative Spaces.
The Barrie Public Library's next book sale will take place in spring 2025.
