Dannevirke Lions' 29th book sale eclipses all others

Vanessa Hape checks out puzzles and books for Skoolz Out at Pips, a holiday and after-school centre, last Wednesday at the Lions' book sale. Photo / Christine McKay

The Dannevirke Lions' 29th annual book sale was a roaring success, co-ordinator Barbara Ferguson said.

The five days of the sale, rather than being arduous, seemed to be over in a flash, according to Lions Club members who had been preparing for the past 12 months.

"The Wednesday 9am opening saw a rush of eager buyers, many from out of town, rapidly scan the trestles for their favourite authors, then settle in for relaxed selection," Barbara said.

"The next rush of eager buyers were the four classes of pupils from Huia Range School.

"What a joy it was to have all these children finding favourite authors. And it was amazing how many went for cookbooks and books on sport, animals and those with an automotive theme."

Barbara said sales on the Wednesday surpassed all previous first days and the trend continued for the week.

"As Lions we were thrilled with the support we received from residents and visitors," she said.

"We received a large number of compliments on the quality and diverse range of books on offer and many buyers said they looked forward all year to this book sale and they returned each of the five days of the sale.

"People said they enjoyed the music section, which was particularly popular this time, as was the large trestle stacked high with jigsaws."

Woodville's John Priest was one of the first through the door, along with Dannevirke's Vanessa Hape, thrilled to find puzzles and books for the holiday and after-school programme she ran with her mother Chris.

"The special Douglas Bader signed copy of Reach for the Sky by Paul Brickhill sold on the first day, and the son of the purchaser informed the Lion on duty that his father had served with Bader.

"The book wasn't in best order, (it had been well read), but its future is now assured," Barbara said.

"The Dannevirke Lions wish to thank everyone who supported the book sale by donating or buying (or both) books to the sale and we can assure everyone that the money raised will go to all the local causes which need our support.

"Next year will be the 30th year of the sale and we are planning to celebrate in the last week of July 2019."