Popular book fair turns page on sixth chapter

THE sixth annual chapter of the St Bernards Parish Second-Hand Book Fair has closed with success, with more than 2,000 people gathering at Clairvaux Primary School to grab a reading bargain.

Upwards of 10,000 books donated by the Greater Geelong community were up for grabs during Sunday’s book fair including children’s literature, sports books, biographies, cooking books, fiction, nonfiction, and plenty more.

While wet weather tried to play a spoiler, St Bernards Parish member Peter Wills said the event far exceeded expectations and expressed his thankfulness to the community for embracing the event.

“While it was a wet and gloomy day, the event was very well supported… we had the biggest crowd we’ve ever had attend the fair.

“We’ve been growing the event every year and the community continue to support it in large numbers by either purchasing a book or donating to the fair through our drop off service each Saturday morning.

“We had all types of book genres, but crime was certainly a favourite… there was certainly something there for everyone.

“We ended up selling about three quarters of the books on display and we are incredibly grateful for the immense support from the Geelong community.”

A special cake stall as prepared by students of Sacred Heart College in Geelong was also a fan favourite, keeping all visitors happy and in the exploring spirit throughout the book fair.

Mr Wills said all the funds raised from the event will help the St Bernards Parish with running community engagement programs and social groups during the next year.