St. Marys Friends of the Library hosts successful Book Sale

St. Marys Friends of the Library (FOL) chair Megan Feeney and volunteer Tara Firby stopped all their hard work for a picture during the FOL book sale.

By Kayla Rock

The bi-annual Friends of Library (FOL) Book Sale in St. Marys was quite a success and continues to bring the community together, drawing between 700 and 800 visitors each year as residents browse tables stacked high with donated books.

Operated entirely through donations, the event allows visitors to fill bags with books for as little as a nickel, making it both affordable and accessible for readers of all ages.

Guests are greeted by a welcoming team of volunteers, whose enthusiasm and dedication have become a hallmark of the event. Among them is longtime volunteer Lorna Parkinson, who says giving back to the community has always been important to her.

“I have always been involved in volunteer experiences and love to give back to the community,” Parkinson said. “I love books and what books do for people.”

The sale is organized by the Friends of the Library, a volunteer-driven group. Through fundraising efforts like the book sale, the organization donates approximately $20,000 annually to the St. Marys Public Library. Those funds help support local initiatives and events, including Movies in the Park and monthly community socials.

Organizers say the library is not only a historic landmark in the community, but also an important gathering place they hope to keep vibrant and accessible for future generations. The Friends of the Library aim to ensure the space remains filled with activity, support and opportunities for connection.

The event also provides a meaningful way for residents, particularly retirees, to stay involved in the community through volunteer work. The Friends of the Library regularly provide sign-up sheets and volunteer information at their events, encouraging anyone interested in helping out to connect through their social media pages and website.