Friends of the Pima County Public Library - Book Sale Guide

Books Friends of the Pima County Public Library Tucson | Friends of the Pima County Public Library - Book Sale Guide

Find used books, puzzles, and literary accessories at an upcoming Friends of the Pima County Public Library Community Book Sale! If you are an avid reader, book collector, or educator, you will love the 5,000 square foot warehouse of books at rock-bottom prices!

You can also opt to become a member to receive special discounts, invitations to member-only sales, and the satisfaction that you are helping to build a more literate and educated city.

Read on for upcoming dates, top tips, and information about how you can get more involved with the organization.

GENERAL INFORMATION

What exactly is Friends of the Pima County Public Library?

Friends of the Pima County Public Library is a non-profit 501(c) 3 organization that is dedicated to supporting and enhancing Tucson library services and programs. Founded in 1969, the organization was created by a group of avid library advocates who wanted to promote a love of reading in our community. Much of the organization's funding comes from Used Book Sales that are held at their main location in central Tucson.

Where is the Friends of the Pima County Public Library sales warehouse located?

The sale warehouse is located in midtown Tucson at 2230 N. Country Club Road (between Pima and Grant). The main offices of the organization are also at this location.

What are the dates for upcoming used book sales?

Community sales are typically held once every month on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and Mondays between 8:00am and 2:00pm.

  • Friday- Regular Price
  • Saturday- 25% off for experienced readers (55+ years)
  • Sunday- 50% for all
  • Monday- $10 Bag Day (Friends' bags)

There are no sales in July and August.

For the full schedule, check the Friends of the Pima County Public Library website.

What days of the community book sales tend to be most and least crowded?

The mornings (all days) are the busiest times. Saturday afternoons tend to be slowest so that is probably a good choice if you prefer a more leisurely shopping experience.

How exactly does Bag Day work? Can I bring my own bag?

On Bag Days (the Monday of the 4-day community sales), it’s $10 to FILL UP one of the Friends of the Pima County Public Library Blue Bags. See photo in our slideshow below. Blue bags are available for purchase at the Book Barn for $1 and can be re-used at future sales.

Is the warehouse open to the public outside the sale dates?

No. The Book Barn is only open during scheduled sales.

How much do the books cost?

Most books tend to be priced in the $3.00 to $5.00 range. Children's books are typically priced at $.50 to $2.00. A bargain!

What is the parking situation?

There are approximately 65 parking spaces outside and behind the warehouse. Parking is free.

There are also two bike racks if you prefer to cycle to the sale.

What should I bring with me?

  • Cash/credit card for buying books, movies, CDs, records, etc.
  • Your blue Friends of the Pima County Public Library bag if you will be shopping on Bag Day.

Are bathrooms available?

Yes, there is an accessible porta-john available.

Is the warehouse wheelchair-accessible?

Yes.

Where do you recommend that we dine near the Friends of the Pima County Public Library warehouse?

There are a plethora of outstanding dining options in the area! Our top picks within 2 miles are:

  • Kingfisher Bar & Grill, 2564 E. Grant Rd. (0.4 miles away) - lunch, dinner, desserts, late nights, oyster bar, extensive wine list
  • Blue Willow Restaurant, 2616 N. Campbell Ave (1.1 miles away) – breakfast, lunch, dinner, year round patio dining
  • Flora's Market Run, 2513 E. 6th St (1.5 miles away) - salad bar, sandwiches, soup

MEMBERSHIP

How much does membership cost?

There are several different categories of membership to consider.

  • BOOKWORM $20/year - Individual Membership
  • BOOK LOVERS $30/year - Family Membership
  • BIBLIOPHOLE $50/year - Includes Friends Coffee Mug
  • BOOK COLLECTOR $100/year - Includes Friends Book Bag
  • LITERATI $150/year - Includes Friends Book Bag and Coffee Mug
  • CONSERVATOR $250 one time payment - Ages 65+, Includes Friends Book Bag and Coffee Mug, Recognition As Life Member on Plaque in Sales Building
  • RESERVE LIST $500 one time payment - Under Age 65, Includes Friends Book Bag and Coffee Mug, Recognition As Life Member on Plaque in Sales Building

Most or all of your membership fee is tax-deductible.

What are the perks of membership?

  • membership card
  • tax-deductible membership
  • a powerful collective voice advocating for the library
  • advance notice of sales
  • members-only shopping day at the book sales
  • friends newsletters
  • invitation to Friends’ annual meeting
  • enhanced programs and services at the library because of Friends support
  • the satisfaction of promoting literacy and the joy of learning in our community

Members also have a monthly preview sale the Saturday before the community sale so members get first chance at selections. There are also quarterly ½ Price Sales for members! Members also get email notifications about the sales and sale specials.

BABIES & KIDS

Can I bring my kids to the Used Book Sales?

Absolutely! There is a special corner just for children's books and your little ones will likely enjoy browsing the titles. Note that the sales sometimes do get crowded. This isn't exactly a "sit-down-and-read" bookstore atmosphere. ;)

Tell me about the Friends' Kids Backpack.

New in 2023! Friends' Kids Backpacks!

These neon green bags (pictured above) are available to purchase for $1. Kids: bring your bag on ANY SALE DAY and fill it up with kids' books for only $5! Just follow these rules:

  • One child, one bag (child must be present).
  • ITEMS NOT ALLOWED: books with price sticker on the front, graphic novels, teen/YA, and adult books.
  • ITEMS ALLOWED: picture books, board books, elementary fiction and non-fiction, easy readers, and chapter books.
  • You must be able to carry the backpack by the string handles.
  • Bags will be checked for compliance.
  • Daily discount specials do not apply to bag prices.

Should I bring a stroller?

The aisles are a bit tight and can get crowded. A baby carrier would probably be a better option.

Are there changing tables in the restrooms?

No.

Is there somewhere to sit down and feed my baby?

Unfortunately, seating options are limited. During nicer weather, there is comfortable seating on the patio for a quiet retreat.

What about my other "baby" (cat, dog, etc.)?

Only certified service animals are allowed in the building. Please have certification available. Therapy or emotional support animals are not considered service animals under ADA, Federal, and Arizona laws.

VOLUNTEERING

How can I volunteer with the Friends of the Pima County Public Library?

Volunteers are "the heart and soul of the Friends." There are numerous roles to fill - greeters, readers, cashiers, scanners, sorters, pricers, community advocates, and MORE.

There is an orientation session on the first Monday of each month at 9:00am, which usually last about 2 ½ hours. Please call 520-795-3763 or email [email protected] to register and verify time and date (may be moved to accommodate holidays).

Can my child or teen volunteer with me?

Older children (ages 12-15) can work alongside their parent(s).  Ages 16 and up can work alone after receiving training.

Can I donate books to Friends of Pima County Public Library?

Book and A/V donations are accepted Monday through Saturday, 9am – noon, at the Donation Center, 2230 N. Country Club Rd.

MISCELLANY

Is Friends of the Pima County Public Library active on social media?

Yes! You can follow Friends of the Pima County Public Library on Facebook and Twitter.

What else do I need to know before I go to a used book sale at Friends of the Pima County Public Library?

  • There are wagons available to help you transport your books to your car.
  • A 25% discount is available for active military & disabled veterans, Literacy Connects tutors, and Tucson Values Teachers. Proper ID cards are required for discounts. Discount applies to regular prices and is not available on ½ Price days or Bag Days.
  • DO consider membership if you regularly frequent the public library and want to spread the love of reading. It's an inexpensive and important way to support our city's libraries.
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