BY SUSAN MCTIGUE
CORRESPONDENT
CLOSTER, N.J.—People who choose to volunteer their time and talents often find a project that not only satisfies them, but truly contributes to their community.
Three book lovers have spent nearly a decade collecting, organizing and selling used books at the Closter Library at its three-times-a-year book sale that draws loyal crowds from all over the region. In the past seven years, these volunteers’ efforts have resulted in $65,000 in donations supporting the Closter Public Library and the Friends of the library.
George and Billie Reissner are residents of River Vale, but spend two full days almost every week in Closter sorting donated books, CDs and DVDs to determine their condition for potential sale. Many do not meet their criteria and are recycled at the Closter DPW recycling facility. About one and a half years ago, the Reissners were joined by long-time Closter resident Walter Johnson who also devotes countless hours to this endeavor.
Once items are deemed acceptable, they are individually priced and shelved by subject matter in alphabetical order. At any given time, there are at least 25,000 books on the shelves. Books are affordably priced, starting at just 25 or 50 cents for many paperbacks and children’s books and increase for more expensive items like coffee-table art books or books that are considered antique or collectible. The Closter sales are reported to be one of the largest and best organized in Bergen County according to returning buyers who can be seen leaving the library with cartons and bags full of treasures.
To recognize and show appreciation for this trio’s enormous efforts, Mayor John Glidden and the Closter Borough Council presented proclamations and bouquets to the Reissners and Johnson at a public meeting Wednesday, December 12. Their efforts to support the library financially and to supply the community with a way to pass used books into the hands of those who benefit from them will never go unnoticed.
“The money raised through these book sales allows us to have extra programs for kids and adults and makes the library an even better destination,” Library director Ruth Rando said.