Community Corner

Mark Twain Library's Annual Book Fair is Getting Closer

REDDING — Mark Twain Library’s 53rd Annual Book Fair debuts on Friday, Aug. 30, launching a four day-long "book party" at Redding Community Center. People with a love of reading will be able to shop from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on the fair's opening day.

Traditionally, book dealers from across the country attend what is the oldest book fair in New England on this day — some even spending the night before in the parking lot for the opportunity to get first dibs on the vast collection of over 60,000 bound treasures in over 65 categories, according to Jen Wastrom, a library board member.

There will be a $15 admission charge for the first hour of the Fair — 9 to 10 a.m. — as early shoppers pay for the right to peruse the selection first.

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On Saturday, Aug. 31, the Book Fair will be open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., books will be sold for the prices they are marked and admission will be free.

On Sunday, Sept. 1, the fair will be open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and all items will be sold for half the amount listed on the price tags.

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Then on Labor Day, Sept. 2, the fair will be open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. in what will be known as "bag day". For $5, customers can fill a bag with as many books as they can squeeze in. Refreshments will be sold.

Credit cards are welcome. 

"This gargantuan event has been made possible for over half a century through the dedication and efforts of hundreds of volunteers," Wastrom said. "This year the troops are once again being rallied: Book Fair volunteer coordinator Ginny Beasley is currently signing up any and all willing hands."

Those who are interested in volunteering should call the library at 203-938-2545 or email Beasley at ginnybeasley@comcast.net.

All proceeds from the Book Fair will benefit the Mark Twain Library, which is owned by the Mark Twain Library Association. It was founded in 1908 by Samuel Clemens — Mark Twain himself — one of Redding's most celebrated residents.


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