A Tradition Continues in the Neighborhood Library

Early holiday shoppers had a unique opportunity this past weekend to find affordable books for their book-loving friends at A.K. Smiley Public Library’s 6th Annual Christmas Sale. The event began Thursday, Nov. 19 and ran through Sunday, Nov. 21 in the library’s assembly room. Each day the prices of the books decreased with Thursday starting at $4 and $1 by Sunday. The sale contained an array of perfect gifts including quality books, cookbooks, Christmas childrens' books, CDs, handmade book gifts, games and holiday cards. Those who visited the sale were also able to participate in a Silent Auction. A special section of the event, held on Sat. Nov 21, included live music from Evan James Group and a visit from Santa Claus. Children who attended Saturday’s special event were given a free book and candy cane treat if they visited the event as well. The special event on Saturday attracted 200 families. All the proceeds from the sale supported the Library and its programs. Many of those who attended were library regulars including Lisa Kirk and her family, who shared that they enjoyed the opportunity to give back to the library. “I have been coming to the library since I was little girl and I enjoy bringing my kids. Over time it has meant so much to us and met so many of our needs,” Kirk said, “We are lovers of books and we love being able to come support the library.” Community Member, Edgar Lopez, who attended the sale for the first time appreciated the diversity of books and the early holiday season adding, “There is something for everyone. They have books from cooking, to politics, to religion. There are Children books and even Christmas cards. I really like that aspect in the sale.” Others such as, Autumn Hatch and her family, enjoyed how the library brought the community together through a head start of the holiday season. “I feel there is a sense of community. It is nice to feel like there is a community center,” Hatch Stated, “They had so much Christmas stuff. I didn’t realize they would have such an array of Christmas books and decorations. It’s a great start to get going on the Christmas season.” Katherine Gifford has been a member of the Friends of the Public Library organization for four and a half years. Gifford enjoys the annual sale sharing, “What I look forward to each year is that the community comes together to support the library. The library does so much with children programs, literacy programs, content, etc. The spirit of giving is produced through support during this Holiday season. I think it is a wonderful thing that we can sell affordable books that can be given as gifts and felt during the holiday season.” According to Rita Reading, a member of the Friends of the Public Library organization and its on the marketing committee, the sale is put together completely by volunteers. The mission of the non-profit organization is to inform the community of the library’s offerings and raise funds in support of it. Reading is grateful of her volunteers’ hard-work and dedication. Reading added “If it weren’t for the great volunteers I work with we wouldn’t be able to accomplish the support we do with the library.”