Library Book Sale raises more than $1,700

In an effort to raise money to make the Library more efficient for students, the Friends of the Library hosted its third annual Book Sale May 11-13.

Books that went up for sale included textbooks, fiction, non-fiction and books donated by professors and community members alike.

"The Book Sale is going pretty well," retired professor Gloria Gideon said. "We are happy with the turnout and the amount of books we have sold so far."

Gideon, who is also a member of the Friends of the Library, said the group is always willing to help the college in any way it can.

"This is a way to bring in more resources for the students and better equip them with the materials they need to become successful individuals," she said.

This is a way for the Friends of the Library to help, be a part of the learning process and give back to students in a single effort, Gideon said.

Waves of students and community member came to buy books during the three-day long process.

Library department Chairwoman Ellen Geringer said it was the best sale in the three years that the event has taken place.

She said the Friends of the Library made more than $1,700, and the money will go in its account to help pay for necessities for the Library.

Geringer said the money will also help to pay for some of the databases that students use for research.

"We have to pay for the databases ourselves, and they can range from $4,000 to $5,000 a year," she said.

Due to the budget crisis, the Library will be getting rid of one of its databases, because it can no longer afford it, Geringer said.

"The Library would not be as effective if it did not have the support of the Friends of the Library," she said. "And the Library is very thankful to have had this partnership with them."

Middle College High School student Elleanor Pangilinan said the Book Sale is an opportunity for the Library to get new books so that students will not be using outdated versions or old texts.

Contact Lamar James at ljames.advocate@gmail.com