Recession bargains at the Book Fair

With up to 80,000 donated books, games, jigsaw puzzles, DVDs and CDs for sale at the Variety Monster Book Fair to be held from 30th July to 2nd August at Alexandra Park Function Centre, Greenlane, it’s a bargain-hunter’s paradise!

“During the winter months, many people love curling up on the couch with a book. With prices starting from as little as $1, you can make significant savings by purchasing a pre-loved book at the Variety Monster Book Fair,” says Mary McCutcheon-Walker, co-ordinator of the A-Z Book Fair Committee, which works tirelessly throughout the year collecting and sorting books.

“We have an extensive range of books including recently released titles, old favourites, and of course, children’s books.

“It’s an opportunity to buy a book by your favourite author or one that perhaps you wouldn’t normally consider at a discounted price with the knowledge that the money is going to a fantastic cause, Variety, The Children’s Charity,” said Ms McCutcheon-Walker of the charity which will soon celebrate its 20th anniversary in NZ of helping sick, disabled and disadvantaged children to reach their full potential.

“Funds from the fair go towards Variety’s Literacy and Communication Programmes, providing grants for books, computers and literacy aides to benefit children nationwide – the 2008 Variety Monster Book Fair raised almost $99,000 and we are hoping to better this result in 2009.

“This year our opening hours have been extended – opening night is scheduled for Thursday 30th July at 6.00 p.m. and for an entry fee of $10 buyers will get first option to view and purchase the bargains. Entry is free from Friday to Sunday.

“Friday will be a perfect day for families to browse through the 80,000 items without the crowds that are expected over the weekend – Variety Ambassador Suzy Cato will also be broadcasting her BIG FM radio programme live from the Book Fair on Friday 31st July.

“We are indebted to the thousands of people who donate books to Variety throughout the year – the Variety Monster Book Fair is unique as it’s the only event of its kind that categorises its books into over 200 different subject categories.