By Adam Hocking

Editor

Marshfield — The Friends of the Marshfield Public Library (FOMPL) are preparing to stage their annual book sale, “Twice Sold Tales,” in the Beebee Forum room of the Library, located at 211 E. 2nd St. in Marshfield. The sale kicks off on Wednesday evening Sept. 24 at 6 p.m. and runs through Sunday Sept. 28.

Wednesday night is for FOMPL members only and runs from 6-8 p.m. Those interested can become a FOMPL member at the door for $5. After opening night the sale runs from 9 a.m. – 8 p.m. on Thursday and Friday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. on Saturday, and 1-3 p.m. on Sunday.

The book sale is in its 27th year, and it has raised $93,000 over that time, according to Twice Sold Tales chairperson Gwen Steensen. Stationed near the front desk of the library, there is also a book cart that offers books for sale year-round, and that has raised $9,000 for the library since 1996.

Steensen said that the sale has grown over the years and now typically raises anywhere from four to five thousand dollars annually.

“It’s not just meant for people who have a library card. It can be people from surrounding communities,” Steensen said. She estimates that she has organized about 30,000 books for the sale this year.

$4,500 of this year’s sale will go directly toward the Marshfield Library and Community Center Capital Campaign, which involves construction of a new library and community center.

Steensen said it takes a community effort to setup and staff such a large sale.

“We have probably 50 volunteers, volunteering many hours, and without them we would not be able to accomplish this,” Steensen said.

The available books are culled from the library collection or donated by the community, and donations for the sale can be dropped at the front desk of the library. In addition to books, CDs and DVDs are available for purchase.

People interested in helping with setup, sales, or cleanup of Twice Sold Tales can contact Gwen Steensen at steensen@charter.net or call (715) 387-4271.