Bag a bargain at the Armidale Rotary Book Fair

Now in it’s 27^th year, the Armidale Rotary Book Fair is back again.

Running from Saturday 17 May to Saturday 24 May, the event will have its usual bumper range of incredible quality books, CDs and DVDs, and will all raise money for some great local causes.

Ian Garske, who is one of the main organisers for the event says the event always proves to be hugely popular with the community.

“We usually have about 250 people lined up at the door on the first morning an often see well over 1000 through the door just on day one.” said Garske.

“We sort of expected that we might start to see the event decline with the new digital books and technology taking over but that’s not proved to be the case so far – people still love books!”

And for those that do love books, the Book Fair is an absolute treasure trove.

With the exception of the “Special” books upstairs, all books are $3 each, CDs, DVDs, games and puzzles are all just $2.

“Novels are always very popular,” said Mr Garske.

“But our best-selling categories are usually art, military history and general history books – and of course the children’s books as well.”

If you’re wondering about the Special books, Mr Garske says they have a wonderful retired librarian who helps them pick out which books make it up to the top floor.

“The books in the Special section range from $5 to $50 each and within that selection I know we have some really fantastic portfolio books, as well as some beautiful books about the New England or by New England authors – it’s always a popular section for the collectors.”

The shelves will be restocked daily until around mid-week and the last day will feature the ever-popular “fill a bag” special.

“On the last Saturday people can come and fill a bag of books for $5,” said Mr Garske.

“Last year we sold 1000 bags!”

And was so popular the Club raised almost $100,000.

These funds go towards supporting important community organisations such as Meals on Wheels, St Vincent de Paul, NERAM, The New England Conservatorium of Music, Care for Seniors, and local schools.

Club president Kerry Myers says the event has become part of the Armidale social calendar – something which attracts thousands of bargain hunters over the week.

“We are so pleased that the Book Fair has become so popular in our city, and we thank those who attend for helping us help so many others,” he said.

“Over the past year the Club has been able to donate many thousands of dollars to local causes, including schools, charities, community resources and activities.”

“Every person who buys a book during the week of 17-24 May should know that they are helping their local community.”

The Fair is open daily from 9am – 5pm at the Armidale Racecourse.

For more information, visit the Armidale Central Rotary website or Facebook page.