Used book sale brings in record $4,000 for young readers
October 6, 2025 at 3:30 AM
More than 300 people attended the Crystal Ridge branch Saturday morning for a used book sale that raised just over $4,000 to support Fort Erie Public Library’s junior collection.
The Friends of the Fort Erie Public Library organized the event and all proceeds will go toward new books for children and teens at the library, making this year’s fall sale its most successful yet.
Over 100 people fill the Crystal Ridge branch meeting room during the first half hour of Saturday’s used book sale. Credit: Friends of the Fort Erie Public Library“We had over 100 people within the first half hour and it was packed,” said Lynne Kumagai, vice-president of the Friends of the Fort Erie Public Library.
The group holds book sales each spring and fall, asking visitors to “pay what you can.”
Donated books, DVDs and CDs filled the Crystal Ridge meeting room. Volunteers from the Friends spent weeks sorting and arranging stock in advance.
This year, the library asked that the proceeds from the book sale go toward its new junior collection for young readers.
“It’s nice to have a specific item that we’re going to be donating to,” Kumagai told Fort Erie Radio at the book sale.
Funds will help refresh shelves for readers aged 10 to 14.
“We want the library to have as diverse of a collection as possible, to support as diverse a population as possible,” said Carolyn Cybulsky, secretary of the Friends. “By raising awareness and raising money, we can help them better serve the community.”
Over the past decade, the Friends have raised more than $90,000 for Fort Erie’s three library branches through book sales, charity partnerships and volunteer events.
The group was one of the charities of the week at the Crystal Beach Supper Market this summer, and they attended the Stevensville volunteer job fair last week to spread the word about library programs and membership.
“We’re always looking for new members,” said Kumagai. “Our meetings are open to the public, and anyone is welcome to attend.”
The next Friends meeting is scheduled for the second Tuesday of the month at the Centennial branch on Gilmore Road and the next book sale is planned for the spring.
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About The Author
Andrew Hawlitzky
Andrew is a Niagara community journalist who has covered everything from local politics to annual festivals and breaking news. He works to make local news a platform where community voices lead the conversation. "If you don't like the news, go out and make some!"
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