The legacy of a book collector benefits the Friends of the Nelson Library
By Contributor
One book collector’s treasures will become fabulous additions to the collections of others on Saturday, May 26, when the Friends of the Nelson Public Library team up with Nelson resident Rick Illingworth to find new homes for the incredible collection that belonged to his late wife, Bernice.
The sale of new and nearly new books on gardening, cooking, baking, crafting, royal biographies and more takes place from 10 to 2pm at 823 Carbonate Street.
One half of the proceeds from the “Garden of Books” sale will benefit the Friends of the Library, which raises money for collections, furnishings, special programs and whatever else the Library needs.
“It’s a wonderful arrangement for the Friends, for Rick, and for booklovers and collectors,” says Catherine Brochhagen of the Friends. “Bernice had an eye for beautiful books, and it was clear she loved them. Many of these books are brand new.”
Bernice was a skilled crafter, cook, baker, and gardener before she passed away in December, 2016. As hard as it is for her family to say goodbye to this important part of her, “knowing that the books will find homes with people who will use them, while raising money for the Library, felt to her husband like a great way to honour her,” says Brochhagen.
The sale will take place on the front lawn of the Carbonate Street home. As Friends of the Library Book Sales are run by volunteers, the sale will begin at 10am (no early birds, please).
Photo Caption: Rick Illingworth, Nelson Friends of the Library member Catherine Brochhagen, and Tony Illingworth are getting ready to sell scores of books on May 28. — Submitted photo
