Friends of the Library offer used book sale, invite public to annual meeting

Variety is the order of the day at the Friends of the Library Used Book Sale, Sept. 29, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., in the lower level of the Oshkosh Public Library. Anyone interested in learning more about the Friends and the activities they do in support of the library is also invited to attend the group’s annual meeting and luncheon at the library on Oct. 24.

New titles on the history of war, an influx of romance novels and a small collection of nicely bound westerns have been added to the shelves for the Sept. 29 sale. There is a selection of new cookbooks, as well as books on animals and pet training. Reference books include sets of encyclopedias and Oshkosh city directories from the 1970s, ‘80s and ‘90s. Check out the extensive collection of Large Print books as well as children's books and graphic novels, audio books, DVDs and music CDs. Bargain book bags offer a mix of titles at one low price.

Mark your calendars for the final 2009 book sale on Nov. 24. Sales are scheduled for early 2010 on Jan. 26, March 30 and May 25.

Bags are in short supply right now, so the Friends ask that shoppers bring a reusable bag to carry their purchases. Canvas tote bags are available for purchase at the Friends Store at the library.

Proceeds from the book sales are used to support programs and initiatives of the Oshkosh Public Library throughout the year. During the current fiscal year, The Friends:

 Purchased prizes distributed through the summer reading program
 Sponsored programs and a special performance at the Leach Amphitheater for children who participate in the summer reading program
 Funded Baby Book Bags, which are distributed to all babies born in Oshkosh
 Purchased books for Oshkosh schools participating in the library’s Book Fest program
 Provided refreshments for special library programs

The Friends, who provide support for the library through volunteer service, fundraising, and advocacy, always welcome new members. Anyone interested in joining the Friends is invited to attend the group’s annual luncheon on Oct. 24, from 10 a.m. to noon, at the Oshkosh Public Library. Learn more about the Friends and hear a library update from Library Director Jeff Gilderson-Duwe, with a tour of the building to follow. There is no fee for the luncheon, but a free will offering will be accepted. Deadline to register is Oct. 18. Registration forms are available at the library.

In addition to the book sale, Friends volunteers assist with the summer reading program, work in the library gift shop and support numerous efforts that promote literacy, preserve local history, and advocate for library services that enhance the quality of life in the Oshkosh community.

For additional information about the book sale or to join the Friends of the Library, contact Dana Stolley, Coordinator of Volunteers, at 236-5206.