On Thursday, Jan. 11, the board of directors of the Friends of the Library Used Book Store convened with Boothbay Harbor Memorial Library Director Joanna Breen to formally make their annual donation.

After introductory business, the group presented Breen with a check for $30,000. That sum represents most of the organization’s total profits for the 2017 bookstore season.

The Friends group operates the Used Book Store each year from April to November. They rely on donations of used books from the community and a staff of approximately 20 volunteers to accomplish their mission of supporting the Library.

“The money that is raised by the volunteers of the Friends of the Library is nothing short of amazing. The time and effort that it takes to haul, sort, assess, price, and stock the generous flow of book donations is no small task. Their work and commitment makes so many Library activities possible,” says Breen.

The Used Bookstore will reopen for the 2018 season on Friday, April 6. Typically, they run on Fridays and Saturdays until May, though this year they’re considering opening on Sundays in that time frame as well. Be sure to check the newspaper and Library website for updates.

The Bookstore appreciates donations of gently used books, DVDs, and CDs. They ask that all donated items be in saleable condition. Unfortunately, they cannot display or sell old textbooks, dictionaries, pre-2005 travel guides, or torn, soiled, or musty books. They also regret that no one has purchased an encyclopedia in years; therefore, these donations are also unneeded.

The Bookstore is unable to accept donations while it is closed for the season. If you are unable to hold on to items you wish to donate until April, please pass them along to the next charitable cause.

If a donor in the region is unable to bring donations to the Bookstore, it is possible to make arrangements to pick up books. Please call the Library at 633-3112 to leave a message with Book Store volunteers.

Upcoming events

Refreshing the Whodunit: “The Beekeeper’s Apprentice” by Laurie King. Join this facilitated book discussion to explore the mystery genre with fellow readers. Saturday, Feb. 10, 10:30 a.m. Read more: https://bbhlibrary.org/refreshing-the-whodunit/

February Artist of the Month: Sandy Harper oils on display in the upstairs Community Room.

Minecraft Play Club: Wednesdays, 2-3 p.m.

Friday Story Hour: Hear a story, make a craft, and sing a song with Miss Pam and Miss Harolyn. 10:15 a.m., ages birth to 5.

Monday Night Book Club: “Anna Karenina,” Monday Feb 12, 7 p.m.