eNews Edition: Spring 2014
The Friends of the Library Bookstore, located in the west wing on the first floor of the Oviatt, will be closing on March 28, 2014, to make way for the continuing transformation of the Library’s main level. Since first opening its doors in September of 2000, the bookstore has generated thousands of dollars from the sale of used books. According to Project and Programs Assistant Vickie Campbell, who coordinates bookstore operations, the items that have been sold in the bookstore over the years have come in the form of used book donations from students, faculty, staff and community members.
The bookstore project, which was first headed by Friends of the Library volunteers Rita Streimer and Debra Goldman, has helped to strengthen the lasting and valued partnership between the Oviatt Library and the Friends organization. For the past decade and a half, the continuing operation of the bookstore has been made possible by the dedicated Friends of the Library volunteers who help process donated items, organize the inventory, and run the bookstore during its regular business hours of Monday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. “These past 14 years have been filled with dozens of enthusiastic volunteers who have dedicated many hours to serving the campus community and raising money for CSUN through the sale of used books,” says Oviatt Library Dean Mark Stover.
Funds generated by bookstore sales have helped the Friends of the Library to support and co-sponsor a variety of special Library events: guest speakers, book signings, Library exhibit openings, and an ongoing student employee scholarship program. In addition, the money helps the Library purchase new volumes to augment the Oviatt’s vast collection. “The Friends Bookstore has been a very good thing for the Library, for the community, and for those who volunteer in the store. I am truly grateful for the many hours that our volunteers and staff have contributed to this important activity,” Stover says.
Hazel Wittenberg, Bookstore Chair
The very good news is that the Friends of the Library will continue to raise funds for future Library events through their ongoing quarterly used book sales. These large-scale book sale events are organized by Campbell and staffed by a combination of Library staff, faculty and student employees who all come together to help the Friends raise money to continue their important philanthropic work. The best part is that these book sales are held outside on the Library’s expansive front portico. Students, faculty, staff and community members will continue to be able to purchase very inexpensive books, CDs, and DVDs while basking in the beautiful southern California sunshine. The Friends of the Library bookstore will continue its regular hours of operation through March 28, with extended hours and special sale prices during the store’s final week of March 24 through 28. Keep an eye out for the next portico book sale, which will take place on Tuesday, March 25. For more information about extended bookstore hours during the final week, you can visit the Library Bookstore page on the Oviatt Library website. For more information about volunteering or becoming a Friend of the Library, please visit the Friends of the Library online, or stop by the Guest Services desk in the Library lobby.