Library volunteers review book sale: low proceeds prompt calls to rethink timing and partnerships

Library volunteers and board members reviewed the recent book sale and said proceeds were lower than in past years. The meeting recorded an approximate take of $238 and members questioned whether the event's labor and setup outweighed revenue when held as a standalone event.

Discussion covered advertising channels, competing events (school book fair, long weekend and weather effects), storage and the burden of moving boxes and setting tables. Members proposed alternatives including combining the sale with other town events, donating excess books to a used-book organization that ships or distributes books, or conducting smaller curated sales throughout the year. One participant summarized the concern plainly: "For $238... I don't know," reflecting questions about whether the manpower investment was justified.

Board members agreed to revisit the book sale plan over the next year and consider options that reduce handling and improve turnout, including timing, co-locating with other activities and exploring partner organizations that accept donations year-round.