Submitted by the Olympia Unitarian Universalist Congregation
How do you move over 10,000 used books donated from the community to one building for a giant book sale? It takes enthusiastic volunteers and a good cause. Books, Brownies and Beans is one of the largest one-day used book sales in the South Sound. Now in its 14th, year, this popular used book sale is organized by the Olympia Unitarian Universalist Congregation (OUUC). Over the years it has raised a total of almost $80,000 to benefit the homeless.
“This year we are broadening our efforts in order to contribute to more organizations out there helping the homeless,” said Sally Brennard, of the Olympia Unitarian Universalist Congregation. Past sales benefitted Out of the Woods homeless shelter at the OUUC. This year proceeds from the sale will go to additional organizations, like Sidewalk, Community Youth Services, Quixote Village and Interfaith Works’ overnight shelter and warming center.
Books, Brownies and Beans has gained a loyal following of serious and casual book enthusiasts who appreciate the huge selection of books at bargain prices. Books come from every corner of the literary world, from Pulitzer Prize winners to textbooks and everything in between. There is also a café selling a selection of fresh baked brownies, hot beverages, plus other treats. Live music plays throughout the day provided by a talented collection of musicians who rotate through.
“The best thing about this sales is how the community comes together to make it happen. We’ve got more than 100 volunteers who collect, sort, and stack the thousands of books that are donated. And of course we’ve got the book lovers who line up early in the morning to buy the books. And the money goes to a great cause. It’s win, win, win,” said Mark Swanson, of the Olympia Unitarian Universalist Congregation.
In 2016, during a remodel of the church, the sale was conducted online only. There were concerns among organizers that the missed year would affect the donations and turnout for the following year. “But nope,” said Linda Crabtree, a past organizer. “The next year the whole doggone building was covered with books and people were lined up before our doors even opened – and it was 18°F out!” she added.
Books, Brownies and Beans takes place on Saturday, February 25, 2017, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Olympia Unitarian Universalist Congregation, 2315 Division St. NW, Olympia, WA 98502. There is no entrance fee and visitors are encouraged to bring their own tote bags.
