The Woodland Public Library’s Friends of the Library (FOL) is inviting community members to explore its Bookshop, which offers a wide selection of budget-friendly books. Located in the library’s basement, the shop features genres ranging from fiction and mystery to cooking, history, and biographies. With new donations arriving daily, the Bookshop aims to provide affordable reading options while supporting library programs.
The FOL Bookshop is a vital resource for local readers, housing a diverse array of titles, including classics and award-winning books. However, Karen Shepard, a dedicated volunteer, has expressed concern that the influx of donations is slowing. In her appeal to the community, she emphasized the need for gently used books, particularly those published between 2016 and the present.
While the Bookshop welcomes various genres, it does not accept encyclopedias, religious texts, or textbooks. Books published prior to 2016 are sent to Better World Books, which provides a modest stipend for the titles and attempts to sell them online. Additionally, books in poor but readable condition are offered to Goodwill Industries, while those that do not meet the established criteria are recycled.
Proceeds from the Bookshop’s sales directly support special programs for both adults and children at the library, making each purchase significant for the community. Potential donors can find more information about the program and donation guidelines by visiting woodlandfol.org. Donations can be delivered to the library during regular business hours.
Shepard encourages residents to consider clearing out their own personal libraries. “I’m going into my personal library, aka a bookcase in the living room, to begin gathering books to donate to the FOL,” she said. This initiative not only helps to maintain the Bookshop’s inventory but also offers residents an opportunity to contribute to a valuable community resource without concerns over additional costs.
The Woodland Public Library Bookshop stands as a testament to community spirit, providing both affordable literature and essential funding for library programs. By supporting this initiative, residents can help ensure that the library continues to thrive as a central hub for learning and exploration in Woodland, California.
