By Brendan Rees
After 26 years, the Friends of Cranbourne Libraries will hold its final book sale.
With ageing members, difficulty in attracting younger people and change of policy with Casey Cardinia Library Corporation in no longer needing the group to raise money through book sales, members have decided to call it a day.
The group’s secretary Helen Crago said members were disappointed with being left with no choice but to fold.
“Our members opinion was that without the book sales, which have been very successful over the years and raised funds to then be donated to the library to sponsor programs, author talks etc. that our role would largely be redundant,” she said.
At special meeting on Tuesday 31 July, members voted to cease operations from 31 August.
Book lovers will have a chance to snap up a bargain at the final book sale which will be held at Cranbourne Library on Saturday 11 August from 8.30am to 2pm.
Ms Crago said the group has been a wonderful way for members to become involved with the public, particularly through the book sales.
“The increasing diversity of this area’s population has made these sales particularly popular among migrant groups and children especially,” she said.
“The patrons attending our sales have been appreciative of the opportunity buy books, many in ‘as new’ condition, at such bargain prices.”
Books will range from 50 cents to $5 each.
