The largest and longest-running book sale in Western New York is set to kick off today at 11 a.m.
"Thanks to the generosity of the people of Jamestown, we're able to bring the Prendergast Library's annual book sale into its 33rd year," said Library Director Linda Mielke. "All I can tell you is that every nook and cranny in the building was filled (with books). We really appreciate everything the people of the Jamestown area do to help us out with the book sale and we hope we sell all of them so we can fill up again next year."
In total, 50 volunteers and staff were at the library Thursday night to help set up. Some have helped out in years past and some were there for their very first time. One volunteer, however, has been in attendance for all 33 library book sales.
Article Video
The Prendergast Library staff and volunteers prepare for the 33rd annual book sale.
Catherine Way, former director of the Prendergast Library, decided to come out of retirement for the day to help set up the book sale alongside her former employees.
"I wanted to support the staff," said Way. "I know how hard they work on this and volunteers are always needed, so I wanted to show my support for what is going on."
Way said she will be looking forward to visiting the library today as a customer.
Article Photos
Eleven-year-old Mei Wen Maxwell volunteers during the setting up of the Prendergast Library’s 33rd annual book sale.
P-J photo by Remington Whitcomb
Though most of the volunteers were longtime patrons of the library looking for a chance to give back, one volunteer in the crowd was substantially younger than the others.
"I think it's nice to volunteer and help out the library," said 11-year-old Mei Wen Maxwell. "I have a lot of fun doing it."
The entire main floor of the library is dedicated to the book sale and is sorted by subject, such as sports, health, business, travel and humor.
Adult hardcover books will be sold for $1.25 each and paperbacks will be sold for $1 each. Children's hardcover books will sell for $1 each and children's paperbacks will sell for $.75 each.
All proceeds from the sale are used to buy new books and other library materials.
"I think the community looks forward to the book sale all year and I'm excited that it's finally upon us," said Claire Certo, library employee. "This is my second book sale and I think this year's sale will go well just like last year's."