Ludington library used book sale this weekend

LUDINGTON — The Friends of the Ludington Library annual used book sale will be held Saturday, July 13, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday, July 14, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on the front lawn of the Ludington Library at 217 East Ludington Ave.

The Friends of the Ludington Library was organized in 1977 by citizens interested in promoting public support and development of the library.  Its main goal is to supplement the funds the library receives.  Fund raising is a vital part of the Friends’ existence.  Money raised at the used book sale is used to buy materials, programs, or equipment for the library.

In the past, the Friends have purchased a camera to record library activities, a portable movie screen, bulletin boards, book ends, furniture for the reading area and children’s area, shelving units, paperback displays, pamphlet holders, CD displays, book carts.   In addition, the Friends donate funds for the purchase of library materials, including books, dvds, audio, and children’s materials, and to bring speakers and performers to the Library, such as Magician Gordon Russ, and the Traveling Zoo.

Fund-raising efforts from the Friends have also provided matching funds for grants from the Carnegie Foundation, the Mellon Foundation, and the MacArthur Foundation.  With the financial support of the Friends, the library has received thousands of dollars worth of library materials and equipment from these sources.

Organization of the sale requires many hours of work by the Friends.  Books must be sorted and priced.  Materials for the sale are gathered from generous public donations and library discards.  A record number of books have been collected this year.

Membership in the Friends is open to anyone of any age.  Dues are modest and members are able to set their own level of participation.  Membership forms are available at the library and during the used book sale.

Friends’ officers for the year include Bruce Nelson, president; Helen D. Nelson, secretary-treasurer; and directors Jim Hopson, Duane Jorgensen, Lana Jorgensen, Joyce Keson, and Carol Omohundro.