The Friends of the Library raised $201,298.55 during the Springfield-Greene County Library District's latest book sale, bringing its total fundraising for the year to $421,625.45.
The volunteer-led organization supports the Springfield-Greene County Library District and has raised more than $6 million through book sales since 1985, according to a community announcement.
Library District Executive Director Ed Walton credited volunteers for the event's continued success.
"I am always impressed with the Friends of the Library’s support for the district. The Friends volunteer thousands of hours of hard work behind the scenes to successfully pull off a seamless book sale. I appreciate all of their support and effort. Thank you, Friends, for your tireless
effort," Walton said in the announcement.
The sale began in the parking lot of the Midtown Carnegie Branch Library and has expanded over the years to the E*Plex at the Ozarks Empire Fairgrounds. Community members donate books and other materials, which are sorted, cleaned, priced and organized by Friends volunteers before each sale.
Sale proceeds support library programs
Revenue from the book sales helps fund programs and capital improvements throughout the library district.
The Friends provided more than $240,000 to the district last year for initiatives including the Summer Reading Program, One Read and Oh, the Horror!, according to the announcement.
Community donations accepted year-round
Used items can be donated during business hours at any of the district's 10 library branches.
For more information, call 417-616-0554 or email friends@thelibrary.org.
The next Friends of the Library sale is scheduled for April 28-May 2, 2027, at the E*Plex at the Ozarks Empire Fairgrounds.
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This article originally appeared on Springfield News-Leader: Friends of the Library raises $421,625 through Springfield book sales
