Read It Again Bookstore: A Treasure Trove of Affordable Books and Community Engagement
The Read It Again Bookstore, located inside the Bentonville Public Library, is a hub of literary activity and community support in Northwest Arkansas. Operated by the Friends of the Bentonville Library, this store offers a wide range of books, media, and activities that cater to readers of all ages.
The bookstore is open Monday through Saturday from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, providing an inviting space for patrons to browse and discover new titles. Prices are exceptionally affordable, with paperbacks priced at $.50 and hardcovers at .00. Additionally, the store accepts cash and credit cards, making it easy for customers to purchase their desired items.
A notable feature of the bookstore is the “free basket” for children, where they can select one book per day. The store also offers CDs and DVDs at $.50 each. Furthermore, the Friends of the Library organization supports various library programs, including the Annual Summer Reading Program, Library Book Clubs, and Bentonville GeekCon.
The Friends of the Library group plays a crucial role in enhancing library services through financial support and community engagement. They hold semiannual book sales in the fall and spring, as well as monthly meetings to discuss ongoing projects and initiatives. The organization is led by dedicated officers and committee chairs who oversee different aspects of their operations.
Another significant aspect of the bookstore is its reliance on donations. Gently used books, DVDs, CDs, games, and puzzles are all welcome, with a special focus on children’s books. However, certain materials are not accepted, including dirty or water-damaged items, textbooks, and 3-ring binders.
In support of the library’s expansion project, the Read It Again Bookstore has temporarily suspended book donations but will resume after the closure. This project, which includes a 22,975 square-foot addition and renovation of existing spaces, is expected to be completed by mid-October. The new facilities will offer improved accessibility to the library’s extensive collection and an expanded youth services area.
The Read It Again Bookstore serves as a cornerstone of community engagement, providing an affordable and welcoming space for readers to explore new titles, participate in events, and support the Bentleyville Public Library’s mission of promoting literacy and lifelong learning.
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