The books that the Friends of the Great Bend Library enjoy vary, but all agree that reading continues to be a passion in their lives.
Dr. Patrick Stang of Great Bend grew up as an avid reader in Victoria. At the time, Victoria did not have a local library, but Victoria had a book exchange program with the Great Bend Library.
“When I was a grade school student, I used to order my books each week from Great Bend,” Stang said. “Reading has always been important to me. Science fiction was my favorite.”
Stang’s value for reading led to a career as a psychiatrist for the Central for Counseling.
The Friends of the Library book sale started Saturday in the basement meeting room of the Great Bend Public Library, 1409 Williams. The members got first chance to sort through hundreds of books, videos and assorted items.
Leslie LeRoy, a Friends of the Library member, said members look forward every year to the book sale. Members spend time searching for books of interest.
“My parents taught me the love of reading and that’s something I passed onto my children,” LeRoy said. “My youngest daughter literally taught herself to read because she felt left out.”   
Sandy Dayton served as children’s librarian for 25 years before volunteering as president of Friends of the Library.
“I’ve seen some of the Friends of the Library for more than 25 years,” Dayton said. “Proceeds from the book sale supplement library programs for children, youth and adults throughout the year. We appreciate everyone’s support.”
The Friends of the Library Book sale continues from 1 to 5 p.m Sunday; noon to 8:30 p.m. Monday and 10 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Tuesday/ Prices are 50 cents for paperbacks and children’s books, one dollar for hardbacks and videos.
The Friends of the Library voted to donate funds toward the new front desk. Membership to the Friends of the Library is $10 per year and $20 for family membership.
For information, ask at the library welcome desk or call 620-792-2409.