Book Bazaar Attracts Customers at Mississippi College Library

MC library student worker Theresa Carter of Pontotoc and Latisha Sullender, the book sale coordinator

Books showcasing the works of award-winning “Clarion-Ledger" cartoonist Marshall Ramsey, an “Animal Encyclopedia" aimed at kids, and copies of “National Geographic" are all up for grabs.

All three were spotted among nearly 7,000 items on sale at the Leland Speed Library Book Bazaar at Mississippi College.

Central Mississippi’s steady rain, and cooler spring temperatures didn’t keep customers away on May 4.

“We’ve had quite a few sales today," said Latisha Sullender, the MC book sale coordinator.

Bargain prices for outstanding books helped fuel shopper traffic starting Thursday morning. Rock bottom prices of $1 to $2 per item are hard to beat these days.

For years, money generated from these frequent book fairs helps the Leland Speed Library upgrade its computers, make new purchases, and address other needs.

Faculty, staff, students, alumni and metro Jackson residents shop at Mississippi College book fairs hunting great deals. Josh Burnham traveled 20 miles from his home in Brandon on Thursday to hunt bargains. Art instructor Ray Gregory walked just a short distance from his office in the Aven Fine Arts Building.

MC staff member LaJune White is pleased with what she discovers on the shelves at the library along College Street.

“I’m always happy at the first of the month," LaJune said. The book sales are scheduled the first Thursday of every month. The next MC book sale is set for June 1. It will run from 9 a.m. through 6 p.m. July 6 is the date after that.

“I love the prices and different variety of books," White said. The administrative assistant and secretary at the MC Department of Christian Studies and Philosophy, LaJune often purchases religious books. She also likes to pick up math and English textbooks for her daughters to help with their studies.

The Byram resident considers herself a loyal customer at MC library book fairs since she started working at the Christian university in 2012.

Whether readers want to learn more about Ninja warriors, American sports or how to manage money, the Leland Speed Library book bazaar features something for all tastes. At an affordable $1 price, the “Animal Encyclopedia’’ remains a tremendous resource for children interested in mammals, insects, fish, birds, reptiles and much more.

With thousands of MC students wrapping up final exams this week, and heading home, the May sale on the Clinton campus wasn’t quite as busy as the one in April.

“Our big sale was last month," said Sullender, a Mississippi College graduate. Sales generated $3,000 in April.

Then it was back to business as Sullender and library student worker Theresa Carter of Pontotoc welcomed more book patrons walking in the door.