More than 40 people filled C.H. Booth library’s downstairs conference room on Monday afternoon, March 25.

Enjoying a potluck luncheon were volunteers for the Friends of the C.H. Booth Library.

“It’s an opportunity to welcome spring, break bread; this is for fun,” said Denise A. Kaiser, annual book sale chairman. Volunteers can “show off” their favorite dish while also enjoying a good lunch. “It’s a time to energize” for upcoming events and for the annual summer book sale, the Friend’s main fundraiser, she said.

Friends member Toni Earnshaw mentioned that “people don’t realize that the book sale needs year-round volunteers,” and takes “enormous hours and is a labor of love. The least we could do is a luncheon for volunteers to honor their hard work.”

Friends president Kay Brix said that “In the beginning,” Friends member Joanne Zang “created the book sale, and for 30 years, she did not rest.” Ms Kaiser, for the next 14 years, “also did not rest.”

She said, “And here we are, embarking on the 44th annual book sale. Ms Brix has “never been part of such a devoted organization.” To the volunteers, she said, “I appreciate you and all you do.”

Also speaking briefly Monday was library Director Douglas C. Lord, who is “thrilled and impressed with this incredible group of people.” The volunteer-base is where the library has “something incredibly special. I am thrilled to assist in the important work you do.”

The Friends and volunteers have a “strong spirit of community and participation,” and are a “leading” volunteer organization, Mr Lord said.

Monday’s luncheon is a “fun way to say thank you for the hard work and dedication of our volunteers and a great way to kick off our busy season. Already, tables have been rented for the sale, movers contacted, the Horse Guard area parking lined up, and much more,” Ms Earnshaw said.

This year’s 44th Annual Book Sale will take place from Saturday, July 13, to Wednesday, July 17, 2019, at the Reed Intermediate School, 3 Trades Lane. Details will follow as they become available.

Watch for news at chboothlibrary.org, in The Newtown Bee, or contact the library at 203-426-4533.