One of Victoria’s most anticipated community events is returning next month, drawing book lovers from across Vancouver Island and beyond.
The annual Times Colonist Book Sale, hosted by the Times Colonist Literacy Society, is set to take place May 2nd and 3rd, promising a weekend packed with incredible deals and a massive selection of books.
“We had the idea for the drive in 1998, when the government cut funding for school libraries,” said Dave Obee, publisher of the Times Colonist.
“That first year we raised $20,000 and thought we were heroes.”
Held at the Victoria Curling Club, 1952 Quadra Street, the sale runs from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday, with thousands of books available across nearly every genre.
And for those looking to contribute, there is still time to be part of it.
The annual book drive gives residents a chance to donate gently used books, helping build the inventory that fills the venue. This year’s drop-off takes place at 1952 Quadra Street on Saturday, April 18th and Sunday, April 19th from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. both days.
Organizers are reminding the public to be mindful of what they donate. Items that cannot be resold, including outdated reference books, magazines, CDs, DVDs and similar materials, can end up costing the organization money to dispose of, reducing funds available for literacy programs.
Hundreds of volunteers then step in to sort, organize and prepare the books for sale, transforming those community donations into one of the largest book sales on Vancouver Island.
“Many of our volunteers have been there 20 years or more,” Obee said.
“They are an amazing group, but every year we need new volunteers. Younger people have stronger backs and more stamina, but beyond that, they bring a different perspective, which is always good.”
The event has become a must-visit for readers, with people travelling from across BC, Alberta and even Washington State to browse the selection.
Proceeds from the event go directly toward literacy programs, school libraries and community initiatives throughout Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands.
The organization raises more than $300,000 annually and has contributed millions to literacy efforts over the years.
“We distribute about $300,000 each year,” Obee said, noting that some school librarians have said the funding provides up to half their annual budget for new books.
The weekend event is widely considered a can’t-miss for book lovers, often drawing long lineups before doors even open.
For many in Victoria, it has become a long-standing tradition that brings the community together while supporting a cause that continues to make a lasting impact.
“Beyond that, we help people prune their personal libraries, and rebuild those libraries two weeks later,” Obee added. “It is a win win win.”
Times Colonist Book Sale
- Where: Victoria Curling Club, 1952 Quadra Street
- When:
- Saturday, May 2nd, from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
- Sunday, May 3rd, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Book Drive Drop-Off
- Where: Parking lot of Victoria Curling Club, 1952 Quadra Street
- When: Saturday, April 18th and Sunday, April 19 (9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.)
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