EDITORIAL: Make plans to support library book sale

Published 9:00 am Wednesday, February 7, 2024

The annual local library book sale is later this week. The fundraiser is highly anticipated by book patrons and it’s also a reminder of just how valuable our local libraries are.

Proceeds from the book sale go to support library programs that support all age groups — children, adults and families.

It’s also great to see that the sale has moved to the recreation department, which offers more space and hopefully more opportunity to generate sales to support the library programs.

The sale opens to the general public at 9 a.m. Saturday and runs through 1 p.m. but library Friends can get a jump on procuring all the good titles on Friday during the members-only presale from 6 to 8 p.m.

If you aren’t already a member of Friends of the Mary Vinson Memorial Library, please consider joining. Friends memberships are $20 for individuals, $15 for seniors, and $10 for students.

The annual book sale is the local library’s biggest fundraiser, with proceeds going to support library efforts such as the summer reading program and other activities that benefit the whole community. The sale is also a great community event, bringing together book lovers of all ages.

Public libraries are a bright spot in so many ways that goes far beyond just books.

Even as technology allows us to have access to books in the electronic form in a matter of seconds, public libraries still play a vital role.

You could even argue that their role is greater now than ever before, especially as books and book titles are increasingly thrust into the forefront of political debate.

The annual book sale helps the library system fill in funding gaps that provide for programs and services all year-long. Remember that libraries are not just a place for books and magazines for many in the local community, they’re a resource for computer access, afterschool programs and activities, tutoring and job research materials.

Visiting the book sale is another way to show support for the local library system and its efforts in putting on programs and activities that celebrate reading and the arts.

Supporting the library supports the community. Visit tllsga.org/friends to join Friends of the Mary Vinson Memorial Library and please make plans to attend this weekend’s event.