Library opens store to sell its used books

The downtown Spokane Public Library on Friday held a grand opening for “Buy the Book,” a retail outlet that sells used library books to the public.

The Friends of the Library, a group of volunteers interested in promoting library programs, will sell adult and juvenile hardback books and paperbacks in the library lobby from noon to 4 p.m. on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Paperbacks sell for 50 cents, hardback books are $1.

A percentage of the sales goes directly to the library with the remainder to be used by Friends of the Library to provide materials for the summer reading programs and refreshments at special events.

“This is a wonderful opportunity for the people of Spokane to offer assistance in supporting the library. Thousands of dollars are raised to support youth programs and in filling a strong need,” said city Councilman Brad Stark, who cut the ribbon at the ceremony.

The store began selling books in June. Since that time $1,400 has been raised. “That’s a lot when you consider that the books sell for 50 cents or $1,” said Eva Silverstone, the library’s communications coordinator. Silverstone said there are more than 200 members of the Friends of the Library. Annual membership is a minimum donation of $10.

The Friends of Spokane Public Library will hold its fall book sale from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Oct. 2, at the library, 906 W. Main. A pre-sale for Friends of the Library members will be held from 5 to 8 p.m., Oct. 1.