End of summer book sale to be held Aug. 24-26 at Dallas Central Library

Just in time for the start of the school year, the Dallas Public Library is hosting a huge book sale at the Central Library, 1515 Young St. The sale will be held from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday, Aug. 24; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 25; and 1 to 4 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 26.

The Friends of the Dallas Public Library (FODPL) is organizing and staffing the end-of-summer edition of its twice-yearly book sale. Unlike previous sales, which were only Saturdays and Sundays, the public is invited on Friday as well. Proceeds benefit the 29-branch library system and its programs, including English Language Learning, GED classes, preschool storytimes, the Mayor’s Summer Reading Challenge and more.

“Everybody wins,” said FODPL Executive Director Mary Wilonsky. “The library clears out thousands of gently used books, CDs, and DVDs, book lovers get ridiculous bargains, and we raise money to support library programs.”

Like a bargain warehouse store, the sale features “all you can haul” buying in bulk. A plastic grocery sack filled with sale items will cost $10, a large fabric shopping bag will cost $20 and a cardboard box full of items is $30. Patrons can buy four or fewer items for just $1 each.

FODPL members will enjoy special discounts ranging from a free sack to a free box, depending on their membership levels. “It’s a great perk for belonging to a great organization,” Wilonsky said. “And you can join at the door.”

FODPL is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization that advocates for the Dallas Public Library and supports its programs. Annual memberships, which begin at $25 and are tax-deductible, are available at www.fodpl.org.