By Jim Buice
For the Clemmons Courier

Instead of getting Dad some nice socks, a sweater or perhaps another tie for Christmas, how about some first edition books by his favorite author instead?

There will be plenty for sale when the Friends of the Clemmons Library will host a book sale Friday and Saturday featuring not only first editions but some rare and out of print books, classics and more from plenty of well-known authors. In addition, DVDs, CDs and other recorded books will be available.

“We have tons of first editions, some old and some currently popular authors, and there are also children’s books, Christmas books, cookbooks, travel, mystery, romance — you name it, we got it,” said Mary Cameron, a member of the board of directors.

Proceeds from the book sale will go toward summer reading programs, the purchase of audio and digital books, computer programs and recognition gifts for staff.

“The library is the only place in the Village that invites everyone, young and old, to come in and enjoy what we have to offer,” Cameron said. “The library provides food for the mind.”

The Friends of the Clemmons Library, which is headed by President Lee Reynolds and has about 75 members, was created years ago to help raise money for services that the county doesn’t provide.

The board of directors supports the library staff in providing programs that cultivate learning and create a positive library experience. Membership is open to individuals of all ages.

The schedule for the book sale at the Clemmons Branch Library is Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. There also will be a special Friends preview sale tonight (Thursday) from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., and although it’s for members only, new members can join immediately at the door for $10 to attend the preview.

Books will be reduced to half-price Saturday at 1 p.m., and starting at 3 p.m., it will be $10 for all the books you can carry.

For further information about the book sale, call the Clemmons Branch Library at 336-703-2920.

Of course, plans are proceeding for the new $6 million library on Stadium Drive. According to county officials, construction manager I.L. Long is planning to receive bids in December. If everything goes well and within budget, the guaranteed maximum price will be issued to the county, followed by amendments to the current contract and briefing the board — with the expectation of breaking ground in January.

Construction of the 20,000-square foot facility is expected to take nine months, putting the projected date of completion sometime late in 2019.