For Literacy Volunteers of Upshur County, books are more than stories on a page. Their annual book sale helps keep the organization’s doors open by funding essentials that grants do not cover, such as electricity, water and rent.

“This is our biggest fundraiser,” LVUC Director Rachel Strawder said. “We usually raise about $1,500 to $2,000, and that money helps pay the bills. It is what keeps us going.”

The book sale will take place Oct. 16 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Oct. 17 from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Oct. 18 from 8 a.m. to noon at The Outpost and Event Center, 20 Raella Lane, Buckhannon.

This year’s event is especially meaningful. In her first months as director, Strawder navigated two office floods and the sudden loss of storage space. When churches were unable to host the sale, Aaron and Tasha Harris, owners of the Outpost and Daily Grind, stepped in to provide their event center.

“I’m so grateful to Aaron and Tasha for donating their space,” Strawder said. “Without them, we really wouldn’t have had anywhere to go.”

The sale will feature thousands of titles, from children’s books and cookbooks to popular fiction and history. Prices will remain low, with paperbacks starting at 50 cents and hardcovers at $1. A special raffle may even add something sweet to the mix.

Volunteers are needed starting Oct. 13 to assist with moving and organizing books.

“Even if someone can only give an hour, that’s huge,” Strawder said. “We’ll be moving and sorting a lot of books, and the more hands we have, the better.”

Beyond fundraising, Strawder hopes the sale will highlight the free tutoring services LVUC provides in reading, math, GED preparation, English as a Second Language and life skills such as driver’s license test preparation.

“Books change lives,” Strawder said. “And at this sale, they help us keep changing lives right here in Upshur County.”

For more information or to volunteer, visit Literacy Volunteers of Upshur County on Facebook or call 304-266-1388.