A new community book store officially opened its doors on Saturday with a ribbon cutting ceremony.
The Book Store, located in the children's section of the at 585 Dahlonega Street, has in stock a wide selection of children’s literature, adult fiction and non-fiction, and several collectible sets or items. Prices range from $.50 for paperback books to $1 and up for hard covers and specialty items.
Members of the Forsyth County Public Library (FCPL) Friends & Advocates kicked off the event by welcoming patrons and volunteers from the organization and Jennifer Dugan, the group's president, thanked the library staff for helping to make the Book Store a reality.
According to Library Director Jon McDaniel, state law requires books that are no longer in demand at the library be sold at public sale. And that the FCPL Friends & Advocates have played a key role in helping the library sell those materials so they can be replaced with new or updated materials that patrons need and want. Since 1996, the year the FCPL became independent from the Lake Lanier Regional Library System, the organization has contributed nearly $100,000 to the library.
McDaniel said through the years the money has been used to purchase materials including, specialized furniture and digital audio-visual equipment. Donated funds have also been used to support Youth Services efforts, particularly the Summer Reading Club and sponsorship of the library’s championship winning spelling bee team.
Ramona Stoner, treasurer of the FCPL Friends & Advocates, said that libraries are an integral part of the community, serving as a hub for information and communications. Libraries provide Internet access, and a safe place for children and teens to complete homework and research for special projects.
Stoner also recognized and thanked the organization’s core group of volunteers.
“We love our volunteers and truly appreciate their support, she said. "If you want to get involved, volunteering in the Book Store is a perfect way to start."
Visit the organization's Web site if you are interested in volunteering to staff the Book Store or seasonal Book Sales.
The Book Store is open during the normal library business hours and is staffed on most days by FCPL Friends & Advocates volunteers. When no volunteer is on duty, patrons can complete their purchases at the library information desk.
The next seasonal Book Sale will be held on the following days:
- Friday, March 23 from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m., member preview sale
- Saturday, March 24 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., open to the public
- Sunday, March 25 from 1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m., open to the public
The Book Store will be closed during sale hours.
