‘Friends’ annual book sale slated for Saturday

The Friends of the Auburn Library hope for clear skies and lots of buyers at their annual book sale Saturday, which benefits the Auburn Public Library.

“The whole purpose is to keep these books in circulation, encourage reading and raise money for Friends of the Library,” said Bill Sherling, president of the group.

The sale, originally scheduled for Oct. 17, will be Saturday at Town Creek Park on South Gay Street, Sherling said. The group collects thousands of donated books throughout the year for the sale, which funds projects and needs outside the scope of the library’s regular budget.

“They have just been a terrific supporter organization,” library director Margie Huffman said.

The friends, founded in the 1950s, fund library programming such as special guest performers in youth services and adult programs, and also buys everyday items such as shelving or books.

“... Just about anything you can think of,” Huffman said.

Sherling said the group knows it’s about time for a sale when their donated warehouse space fills up. The group usually has 5,000 to 7,000 books at that point, Sherling said.

Most of the books collected are paperbacks – about two thirds, Sherling said. Prices start at 25 cents for small paperbacks and hardcovers begin at $1. Sherling said Friends of the Auburn Library usually sell about three fourths of the books they collect.

If You Go
What: Friends of the Auburn Library
annual book sale
When: 9:30 a.m. on Saturday
Where: Town Creek Park on South Gay Street in Auburn
Cost: 25 cents for small paperbacks, 50 cents for trade paperbacks, $1 or more for hardcovers. Cash or check only.
More information: Anyone interested in joining Friends of the Auburn Library can e-mail Margie Huffman at for more information.