Community Corner

Friends of the Woodinville Library Needs Book Donations

Children's books are particularly needed for the Friends' book sales.

Friends of the Woodinville Library is asking the community for donations of gently used books to use in the semiannual used book sales and ongoing sales from the library's lobby bookshelves.

The group funnels all proceeds back to the library in the form of grants that support children's programming (including the Summer Reading Program and story time supplies), and teen and adult programs offered by the library.

“We also have provided funds for the outdoor benches and picnic tables, a world globe, and other library fixtures,” said Marcia Seip, secretary for the Friends.

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The library's lobby shelves hold a sampling of the variety of books the Friends receive. Purchases can be made anytime the library is open.

“Each month, $700-$800 worth of great used books are purchased by library patrons -- with a top price of $1 and many for 25 cents,” according to Seip. “That's a lot of books being passed on to new readers -- recycling at its best.” 

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The Friends rely on donations to keep the lobby shelves full and as inventory for the semiannual sales. A common misconception is that the used books are culled from the library's collection: in fact, KCLS has its own system for its discarded books. The used books that the Friends handle are strictly donations from the community. 

Right now, as demand for summer reading is at its peak, inventory of all types of books is low. What are most needed now are children's books -- picture books, early reading, chapter books, and books for teens. 

“We can never have enough children's books; the demand is high all year round, and they sell quickly” Seip said. 

Donations -- one book or a bag or box full -- can be dropped off at the library anytime during its open hours. Please remember that donations are for re-sale: they cannot accept books with mildew or water stains, that are dirty or damaged. They also cannot resell computer software or computer games, VHS tapes, and encyclopedias.


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