Bookarama returns, new convener

Rotary Timaru North members and volunteers prepare for Bookarama this week. PHOTO: CONNOR HALEY
Rotary Timaru North members and volunteers prepare for Bookarama this week. PHOTO: CONNOR HALEY
A long-running Timaru fundraiser is preparing to mark a new chapter.

Rotary Timaru North’s annual Bookarama is back this week but with a few new changes.

The three-day book fair, which has run since 1976, is under the watchful eye of convener Dale Davey for the first time.

Mrs Davey said book-lovers could expect a slightly different layout to previous years.

"We’ve moved some things around so that people won’t just go rushing to one end to grab things like the paperbacks which are now in the middle.

"Hardbacks are particularly good this year and in fact cheaper than the paperbacks.

"We have attempted to make sure all the books are in good handled condition, they are priced fantastically, in top condition and there will of course be many sought-after collectables."

The fundraiser will be running from tomorrow to Sunday at Trinity hall in College Rd.

As always the event is a fundraiser to assist community groups that need financial support, Mrs Davey said.

"We’ll be looking to support the likes of South Canterbury Hospice, Life Education, SC Multiple Sclerosis and the Fraser Park Trust this year.

"We are a group of committed Timaru citizens wanting to help make a difference here in Timaru by volunteering and spending time doing things like this."

She said she had enjoyed stepping up into the convener role.

"I’ve been surprised by how much support I’ve personally got from everyone and the encouragement I’ve received.

"It’s a big job and you need to be committed but I love books.

"It’s my happy place, I used to take the week off work so I could just be here.

"Since I was given the role everybody has just really gone with it, I really admire them all, it’s a great group to belong to and a great team to be with."

Mrs Davey was very appreciative for all the support the fundraiser constantly received.

"We want to thank the public for their support both with the donation of books and attending the sale.

"We’ve had a lot of support from members and I’ve roped in quite a lot beyond the club.

"We’ve managed to get a few high school kids this time as well which has been great.

"We’re always looking for more volunteers, so volunteering from the public is welcomed as there are a lot of people who love living in a book world."

Doors will open at 9am tomorrow, Saturday and Sunday and close at 5pm tomorrow and Saturday and 3pm on Sunday.

connor.haley@timarucourier.co.nz