The Friends of the C.H. Booth Library announced on July 14 that it will offer a limited assortment of children’s books, puzzles, games, and media at the Newtown Farmers Market on Tuesday, July 21, rain or shine.

The Newtown Farmers Market is set to be open at Fairfield Hills from 2 to 6:30 pm, every Tuesday this summer.

For decades, local readers could shop to their hearts’ delight at the Friends of the C.H. Booth Library’s annual book sale or visit its Little Book Store at the library. In lieu of those outlets, the group will bring the books to readers by participating in the Farmers Market.

“Our volunteers have missed the joy of making affordable books available to book lovers in Newtown,” Friends of C.H. Booth Library President Toni Earnshaw said. “This is a small way the Friends can get books out to kids, parents, and teachers until we can have a larger sale.”

The Friends of the C.H. Booth Library will be starting small by responding first to the urgent call for children’s items, according to a release from the group.

“Everything on offer will be pulled from storage and is safe for sale,” noted Denise Kaiser, book sale chairperson. “Besides wearing masks, all customers will be asked to cleanse their hands with hand sanitizer before handling the items.”

As a further precaution, customers will be able to pay by using their cell phones to access the group’s website, boothbooksale.org, and make a payment online. Cash will also be accepted, and exact change would be appreciated.

Until the library reopens to the general public, it is not possible for the Friends of C.H. Booth Library or the library staff to accept any donated items. Visit the group’s website for new guidelines for donations and information about making a donation or becoming a member.

The Friends of the C.H. Booth Library can be contacted by e-mail at boothbooksale@yahoo.com.

Some changes for the Newtown Farmers Market this year, due to COVID-19 pandemic precautions, include enforcing social distancing and separating vendors by 12 feet. Masks that cover the nose and mouth must be worn by vendors and shoppers alike, as previously reported by The Newtown Bee. Pre-ordering is encouraged through the vendors’ websites or Google forms. Links to the websites are available online at newtownctfarmersmarket.com.