Library raises funds for updated books

Friends+of+The+Library+volunteer+Michelle+Naidoo+arranges+books+in+Contra+Costa+College+Library+during+its+Annual+Book+Sale+on+May+7.

Cindy Pantoja / The Advocate

Friends of The Library volunteer Michelle Naidoo arranges books in Contra Costa College Library during its Annual Book Sale on May 7.

By De'Jon Sylvain, Advocate Staff

In a push to spread the joy of reading and literacy, the Contra Costa College Library’s Annual Book Sale and Boutique opened its doors to students and staff May 7-9 in the Library and Learning Resource Center.

Friends of the Contra Costa College Library (FOL) organized this event to raise funds for the services and programs of the Library and Resource Center.

The FOL is an affiliated organization that promotes “the development of the college Library as a center for learning, study and research for the students, faculty, and staff of Contra Costa College.”

“The organization supports library fundraising,” FOL member Judy Flum said.

According to Flum, the FOL promotes awareness about the CCC Library, helps to increase Library resources and works to enhance access to information through technology.

Flum, a retired CCC librarian, said all proceeds are put toward improving the services and programs of the Library.

The FOL weeds out-of-date combinations of books, films and merchandise as well as received community donations to be sold.

Computer, archaeology, math, astronomy and psychology were among the subject textbooks up for grabs at the event.

Librarian Erica Watson said it’s important for students to purchase used books because it helps provide up-to-date material for the library.

“All the money goes back to the Library,” Watson said, “It goes toward funding for new books and services.”

For example, the last book sale was able to provide the Library with a scanner for CCC students.

For shoppers not interested in books, the Gift Boutique offered gently used jewelry, art, scarves and other items.

Medical assisting major Chealse Perez said, “I think it’s a great idea to have a book sale because it benefits the campus.”