Book lovers will be in shopping heaven Dec. 1-3 when the Friends of the South Pasadena Public Library holds its annual holiday book sale.
The Friends have been holding this annual fundraiser for more than 20 years and it will once again be held in the community room of the library at 1115 El Centro St. in South Pasadena.
“What makes this event unique among area libraries is the longevity of the tradition,” explained board member Roseanne Hui.
The Friends over the year have been curating new and gently used books to sell, beginning Friday evening, Dec. 1, when Friends members will be admitted early at 5 p.m. and then the event is open to the public from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
The sale is on from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 2; and Sunday, Dec. 3, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., which will also feature a special marketplace showcasing local artisans.
“This year, we’ll have, in particular, a lot of special interest books — especially on bird watching and gaming,” Hui said. “These books are all unique to the holiday sale.”
Books on sale will also include an extensive collection of current and classic fiction and children’s books; coffee table books; antiquarian collectibles and a wide variety of nonfiction items. There will also be selections available for fans of graphic novels and comic books.
Hui explained that books are put aside throughout the year, and researched to determine possible value and interest.
“It sometimes goes through several different people before it is determined whether it will go in the holiday sale,” Hui explained.
Other special books might be placed for bid at the Friends’ monthly silent auction.
Hui said that the holiday book sale is the largest fundraising event held each year by the Friends and that over the years, it has funded the summer reading program; supporting the purchase of library materials; and well as helping to pay for other library improvements.
Hui said last year’s sale raised several thousand dollars.
Sunday’s marketplace will feature some new artisans including Goolagong Ceramics, which produces one-of-a-kind cups, bowls planters and vases. Bellagazoo will showcase mixed-media jewelry; floral headwear and pillows; while members of the South Pasadena community garden will sell hand-dyed indigo items including totes and dish towels.
The Friends are also urging the community to join the group or donate by going to its website at friendsofsopaslibrary.org.
First published in the November 17 print issue of the South Pasadena Review.
