August 24 – There is always something happening at the Sunshine Hall Free Library. After the recent Treasures and Trinkets Sale proved to be a major fundraising success, the Library’s popular Book and Bake Sale is next. It will be held this weekend at the newly renovated Highland Town Hall, 4 Proctor Road, on Saturday, August 29^th, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday, August 30^th, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Visitors can choose from thousands of books and a generous selection of homemade baked goods. Helene Hoffman, who is coordinating this year’s Book Sale, said both books and baked items will be offered on a “pay what you want” basis- take as many books and sweet treats as you like and contribute whatever amount feels right. As always, proceeds will support Sunshine Hall Free Library programs. This year’s book fair also includes a special feature thanks to award-winning author Ann Patchett.

Miss Patchett’s latest book, Whistler, has spent weeks on The New York Times bestseller list and is among the library’s most requested titles, with more than 200 names on the waiting list. She has graciously signed a copy dedicated to the readers of the Sunshine Hall Free Library, which will be featured in the Book Sale’s online auction.

So, what is the library today? You can still sit in the reading room, browse magazines, and check out a book, just as earlier generations did. But today’s Sunshine Hall Free Library offers much more, including 24-hour free Wi-Fi, technology access, and free programs for children and adults that might otherwise cost money. Patrons can use Libby for e-books and audiobooks, Kanopy to stream thousands of films, Mango for language learning, and even a full New York Times subscription. The library can also order nearly any book, newspaper, or magazine in print. Beyond books, it offers a seed library, herb garden program, DVDs, audiobooks, puzzles, magazines, children’s toys, exploration boxes, hiking backpacks, early literacy backpacks, computers, printers, copiers, fax machines, scanners, and other small-business resources for public use. It also lends four free passes to Bethel Woods and its museum.

This fall, the Speakers Program will resume; the Mystery Thriller Book Club is already active; and bi-monthly Wednesday Storytime remains a favorite for preschoolers. Best of all, every one of these wonderful resources is available free with your Library card. Last year the Library had over 6,000 visitors, over 19,000 items in circulation, 9,000 print materials and 10,000 e-books and other downloads. Clearly, the library is no longer just about books. For information about the Book Sale or to sign up for a Library card or any resources go to the sunshinehallfreelibrary.org.