Buy a book, support the library.

That’s the idea behind a special event being put on by the Friends of the Oakdale Library, coming up at the Saturday, July 18 Morning Market in the downtown area.

Those attending the market are encouraged to visit their booth, between 8 a.m. and 11 a.m., and check out their collection of Blind Dates with a Book.

“It’s your chance to find that perfect literary match,” said Friends Co-President Jessica Brennan. “For a small donation, literary lovers can choose one or more Blind Book Dates. These gently used books are wrapped and ready to ‘go on a date’. After reading them, donors can rate their ‘Blind Date’ on the bookmarker inside the book and deposit it in the receptacle at the Oakdale Library by noon on July 27, 2026 to be entered into a drawing to win one of several prizes.”

Donations to this fundraiser will help support the Library’s programs and the ‘date’ books do offer information about the genre to help with the selection.

If you can’t be at the July 18 market, Brennan said you can still help the cause.

“Don’t despair,” Brennan said. “The Blind Date Books will continue to be available at the Oakdale Library until the drawing deadline on July 27.”

“We’re excited that Friends of the Oakdale Library will be the featured nonprofit at this week’s Saturday Morning Market,” added Sharon Arpoika, Co-President with Brennan.

“Stop by our booth to meet Friends board members and Oakdale Library staff who will be there to chat, share information about the library and its programs, and connect with our wonderful community,” Arpoika said. “Whether you’re a long-time library supporter or just discovering what we’re all about, we’d love to see you there. Come say hello and support your local library.”

In addition to perusing the Blind Date Books market attendees can look forward to:

• Free Books for Kids – While supplies last, children can choose a free book to build their home library.
• Extra Goodies – Pick up a few surprises to take home.

The Friends of the Oakdale Library, Inc. is an all-volunteer public service organization. Proceeds from the fundraiser go to support community programs at the Oakdale Library. For further information about the Friends of the Oakdale Library or to make a donation, visit their webpage at friendsoakdalelibrary.org or visit their Facebook page.