I get a certain rush when I enter a used book store. The familiar slightly dusty smell of well-loved books, the reverent quiet of fellow shoppers and the thrill that fills my soul as I hunt for the ONE (or let’s be honest) the MANY books to join my must-read lineup. The rush is multiplied tenfold when it’s Friends of Central Arkansas Libraries (FOCAL) Used Book Sale weekend. Why, you may ask? It may have a little something to do with the tempting pricing. This weekend paperbacks are $1 and hardbacks will be just $2. 

While I find plenty to fit my own reading tastes, I’ve also found some great books for my boys at past sales. I’ve been able to introduce and enhance their love for authors like Cleary and Dahl and characters like Thomas the Tank Engine. I’d encourage fellow parents and teachers to come check out the kids’ section to expand their young readers’ libraries. 

Another bonus of the sale: it helps provide funds for the library's Summer Reading Club, Read To Me (which provides books to newborns and toddlers when parents register them for a library card), storytimes, music events, puppet shows and other public programs across CALS’ 14 branch locations. As a frequenter of many a storytime, this exchange seems like an all caps WIN-WIN. 

Stay tuned, this event has been postponed for the time being. Stay up to date here: CALS website.