Carmichael Friends of the Library stock up for a recent book sale. Members are from left: Carol DeKorte, Pam Dilanni, library Branch Supervisor Jennell Heimbach, Barbara Safford, Margot Howard, Sidney Sadler and Jean Kwong. Photo by Susan Maxwell Skinner

CARMICHAEL, CA (MPG) - Carmichael Friends of the library are indeed friends to a good cause.

Between sales in their lobby shop and other fundraisers, the volunteers contributed more than $13,000 to the facility in 2025.

On-site sales of donated books last year brought in around $1200 per month. In October, the organization partnered with Carmichael Chamber of Commerce in a book-exchange fundraiser.

“For $10 a head, everybody went home with a book they loved,” said Friends Vice President Barbara Safford. “At the end of the day, the Chamber gave us a lovely check.”

In addition, the Friends’ November weekend book sale raised almost $2000.

Used reading material has pumped more than $100,000 into the Sacramento library system in recent years and Carmichael branch is a leading contributor.

“It’s exciting that used books have such a positive impact,” said Safford. “These funds bring literacy and pleasure to thousands of children and adults.”

Deemed the busiest library in Sacramento County, the Marconi Avenue branch has more than 30,000 visitors per month. Patrons inevitably browse the Friends’ lobby shelves, where books, magazines and CDs range from 25 cents to $3 per item. Some brand-new publications are marked higher.

Carmichael Friends of the Library volunteer Barbara Safford will receive an Ambassador of the Year award from the Carmichael Chamber of Commerce in March. Photo by Susan Maxwell Skinner

“We keep prices low so anyone can have something of their own to read,” Safford said. “Often, our inventory is a child’s one chance to acquire a book of their very own.”

Through a ‘Book First’ program, Sacramento Friends groups provide thousands of free books for first grade students per year. The Carmichael group offers summer reading programs and early childhood reading sessions. They also donate to library needs and for advocacy.

The library has an outside drop-off for donations.

“People leave us bags and boxes of books,” said Safford. “In many cases, they’re downsizing. Some voracious readers acquire new titles weekly and part with them after one reading. This helps keep our stock in tune with best-seller lists.”

When volumes of high value are donated, the Friends add to the kitty by selling them on Amazon. In spring and fall, Carmichael Friends run major sales events in the library’s community room.

The lobby store runs on an honesty system. “People leave payments in a box inside the library,” Safford explained. “Our customers are very honest; many leave more than the listed price. They know it’s going to a good cause.”

In recognition of Barbara Safford’s community service, the Carmichael Chamber of Commerce has named volunteer Barbara Safford 2026 Ambassador of the Year. The award will be presented at a March 25 gala.

Carmichael Library is located at 5605 Marconi Ave. Friends of the Library membership costs $20 per year for children, $20 for adults and $25 for families. For more information, call 916-264-2700.

Correction: The Carmichael Library does not have a drop box for donations. The library can receive donations during open hours, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday.