August 1970 -- First Library Book Sale a Success!
On Saturday, August 15, 1970, the Friends of the Oak Park Public Library held their first used book sale to raise funds in support of the library.
Approximately 8,000 books were sold during the one-day event held in Scoville Park.
The Friends raised $1,525 that was earmarked for the purchase of a soundproof booth and electronic equipment to record books on tape for use by the blind.
The chairperson was Mrs. Henry (Sherlynn) Reid, and Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Kahovec served as general coordinators.
Volunteers included not only adults, but Explorer Scouts and the village youth commission group. In addition, Mrs. Kahovec thanked one other group of volunteers: "And I am very grateful to the so-called hippies, too, who helped us throughout the day. They were a real joy." (Oak Leaves, 19 August 1970, p. 8)
This August the Friends Book Fair celebrates its 40th anniversary. From its humble beginnings, the sale has grown into a much-anticipated summer event.
The sale now raises about $50,000 each year, and processes approximately 100,000 volumes.