Annual Library Used Book Sale Opens Its Doors at 9 AM
Festus, MO · September 10, 2026
Canvas tote bags are practically mandatory on West Main this morning as the library unseals thousands of boxed paperbacks. Pack an extra bag — you will want the trunk space once you reach the bargain tables.
The Lead
Starting this morning at 9:00 AM, the Festus Public Library's lower-level community space turns into a bustling labyrinth of paperbacks, hardcovers, and children’s literature for the annual Friends of the Library Book Sale. Volunteers spent the early part of the week sorting thousands of donated titles, grouping everything from regional history and classic Westerns to recent bestselling thrillers onto tables arranged for easy browsing.
For the library, the three-day fundraiser provides essential support well beyond clearing out shelf space. Proceeds directly assist children's storytime materials, guest presentations, and new additions to the collection throughout the coming year. Browsing runs until 7:00 PM tonight, continues through Friday afternoon, and concludes with Saturday morning's half-price clearance session where remaining volumes will leave in cardboard boxes.
Local Pulse
U.S. 61/67 Lane Restrictions Remain Active Crews continue daytime lane reductions near Brandon Wallace Way, so allow extra travel time toward Crystal City.
County Grant Plan Open for Public Input Residents can review proposed federal community funding allocations online through September 25 before county officials finalize awards.
What's On Around Town
Seniors in the Park Larry G. Crites Memorial Park, 10:00 AM–1:00 PM Enjoy live music from The Legends Band alongside morning bingo and lunch.
Festus Tigers Boys Varsity Soccer Festus High School (501 Westwind Dr), 5:30 PM Cheer on the varsity squad against conference opponent Windsor at home.
Crystal City: Community Bike Cruise Crystal City Municipal Park, 6:00 PM Ride a relaxed three-mile neighborhood loop starting near the park pool.
Classic Movie Night: Dirty Dancing The Contrarian Concert Hall & Theater (125 E Main St), 7:00 PM Watch the retro screen classic with pizza, popcorn, and signature drinks.
Spotlight & Story
- Kimmswick Apple Butter Festival
- In 1976, local preservationists fired up an outdoor copper kettle with family recipes to fund the town’s fledgling historical society museum. Today, volunteers still take turns stirring simmering apples over open wood fires for eight continuous hours before canning every jar.
Festus Daily Digest — compiled from local sources as of 6 AM. For breaking updates, follow your local newsrooms.
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