Pequot Library's 'Amazing Sale' Returns To Southport

SOUTHPORT, CT — The book sale reputed to be the largest in the Northeast — and certainly the local favorite — returned Friday morning to Southport.

Hundreds of visitors came from all over the region to attend Pequot Library’s 61st annual Summer Book Sale, which featured more than 100,000 items, including books, records, CDs, DVDs and a range of specialty items.

“They have a great selection in there, as always,” said Manya Piels, of Westport, as she walked away from the sale with an armful of literature.

Last year the sale had to be canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but the area tradition was back in full swing, with the legendary “Big Tent” housing dozens of selections, including children, travel, and mystery, with a secondary tent offering a wide range of record albums, cookbooks, sheet music and more.

“We missed it so much last year,” said Mary Jo Koeck, of Fairfield.

Over the years, the sale has grown in reputation, while also generating a significant portion of the library’s operating budget. This year, additional funds were needed to help pay for the roof replacement on the historic building.

“It’s phenomenal,” said Maryfrances Cooney, of Fairfield.

She was one of close to 350 teachers who work at inner-city schools and were invited to take part in the library’s voucher program. Since 2003, the library has granted teachers from challenged regions a $100 voucher to make purchases that are earmarked for their classrooms.

“It’s giving back to the community,” Cooney said.

Historically, people have traveled long distances to attend, and this year was no exception. Lisa Pike and her daughter drove down Friday morning from Mystic, as they do each year, to get first crack at some of the best the sale has to offer.

“This is one of our favorite events,” she said. “It’s an amazing sale.”

The sale will continue through Tuesday, with items lowering in cost each successive day.

The sale will be open 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday, and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesday. For more information, visit www.pequotlibrary.org.