As many of our local library patrons know, all of our area branch libraries have “Friends of…” groups that support the libraries in many ways, not the least of which is by selling used and donated books to help fund new books and other activities for the library. Â Â The book sales types and schedules (weekly at Memorial Branch Library, monthly at the John C. Fremont Branch, and semi-annually at the Wilshire Branch Library) differ, but all provide great opportunities for book bargains and supporting these great community partners.
The Friends of the Wilshire Branch Library (FOWL) let us know recently that in addition to its big semi-annual book and bake sales, they also have Permanent Sale Shelves in the library (149 N. St. Andrews Pl.)…which means that on any day the library is open, you can walk in and buy a book for a dollar or less (usually $.50).  And then it’s yours forever, with no pesky due dates or potential overdue fines.
Also, starting on July 3 and continuing until the next big semi-annual sale in October, FOWL has organized a series of “very special category sales” on one of its permanent sale shelves. Â The first category is cookbooks and craft books, which will be offered for just $.25 each for the next two weeks, or until that category of books is gone and the next category sale begins.
It’s a great excuse to visit the library and catch up on your summer reading. Â And while you’re there, just look for the Special Sale Books on the FOWL shelves, and drop your quarters in the handy cash box. Â (Also, you can donate your gently used cookbooks and craft books, too, to help raise money for the library.)
Finally, you can also join FOWL for just $5.00 to further support the library.  In addition to its book sales, the group sponsors crafts events for children, plantings in the library garden, gingerbread-like houses at Christmas…and purchases books on the librarians’ “wish lists.” All to make the library a better place for patrons of all ages to gather, share about the world, and increase their knowledge.
