The 2010 book sale was a sell out!

June 18, 2010
by Shobha Vanchiswar

Every year when book donations arrive at the Chappaqua Library for the Annual Book Sale, and the volunteers are madly sorting and arranging the books, there comes a moment when it all seems overwhelming. The boxes and bags of books keep piling up in the theater lobby and eventually overflow out the doors. And no matter how much is done, there seems much, much more to do.

The questions start flying: “Have we ever had so many books?” “ How are we going to get it all sorted and ready?” “Is this a keeper or too damaged to sell?” And yet, nobody whines or gives up. In fact, all along there is a spirit of camaraderie seldom seen these days. Advice and opinions about various books are freely given, new friendships are made, old pals catch up on news.  We’re actually having fun in this frenzy of work! Reminds me of a traditional barn raising.

This is what amazes me each year. How brilliantly our community comes together to get worthy things done. Folks volunteer, ready and willing. When there seems too much to do, many rearrange their schedules and give even more volunteer hours. Incredible and yet, not surprising. This is when I see New Castle at its best. When we team up, we do extraordinary things.

“Best book sale in the county”

So, this year was no exception. The volunteers were, of course, exceptional. Those who came to buy books were remarkable. They bought box loads and returned several times. Does this community like to read or what?! People also came from all far afield to our library book sale. We heard from several that “this is the best book sale in the whole county.”  Actually, in monetary terms, this was, indeed, our best sale in recent years. I am so pleased to announce that we raised almost $20,000.

Participating in the spirit of community were the many food purveyors in Chappaqua. They made generous and delicious contributions to the volunteer appreciation party that concluded the book sale. When you next visit Susan Lawrence, Don Emilio’s, Le Jardin du Roi, Grappolo, Gail Patrick’s, Pizza Station, Lange’s Little Store, Crabtree’s Kittle House and Top of the Hill Wines, please thank them. They need to know how much they are appreciated.

Each year I never fail to be impressed by all the volunteers. Maybe blown away is a better description. Their enthusiasm and hard work cannot be matched. I am honored to work with them all. It is their example that keeps me going. 

On behalf of the board of the Friends of the Chappaqua Library, I thank every single person who made this year’s book sale such a success. I also send a personal shout out: You are all my heroes. I salute you.

Shobha Vanchiswar is the president of the Friends of the Chappaqua Library.