Libraries  |  10 Aug 2020

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Literature lovers will be out to bag a bargain at the annual Christchurch City Libraries Book Sale this month.

After COVID-19-enforced delays, the two-day sale at the Pioneer Recreation and Sport Centre “will leave no page unturned in delivering an array of books to suit the tastes of every reader”.

Christchurch City Council Head of Libraries and Information Carolyn Robertson says plans to hold the sale in March “were stymied by the pandemic”.

“However, the delay has given staff more time to put together an impressive catalogue of bargains for the sale on Friday, 28 August and Saturday, 29 August,” Ms Robertson says.

Find out more about the Big Bargain Book Sale.

“During the lockdown, the demand for our online and eBook services showed that more people turned to reading as everyday challenges and pressures brought massive changes to our lives.

“Today, that demand for a good read continues to grow strongly as people stay closer to home and rethink their entertainment options.

“Many have rediscovered books and the value of being able to ‘escape’ to another place so a trip to our bargain book sale will be well worth the effort.”

Each year, hundreds of people surge into the centre to pore over long lines of tables stacked with a remarkable array of books for all ages.

“One of the best sale sights is a youngster carrying a big pile of books that they are eager to take home and read,” Ms Robertson says.

“We will have thousands of withdrawn library books, magazines, CDs and DVDs on offer.”

Sale prices start at $1 for books for young adults and children, rising to $3 for adults’ books and DVDs, CDs and talking books. A range of motor manuals will also be available.

A selection of premium art, landscape and gardening books will cost slightly more.

People can also pick up five magazines for just $1.

The Big Bargain Book Sale gets under way at 9am on Friday, 28 August and Saturday, 29 August.

People can browse the book-filled tables until 7pm on Friday and 4pm on Saturday. Payment is by cash or eftpos only.

The Pioneer Recreation and Sport Centre offers plenty of parking. Bargain hunters can also opt to hop on the Orbiter or several other bus services that drop off passengers nearby.