Founders Book Fair a best-seller

A bumper year of donations to the Founders Book Fair has resulted in a record-breaking amount raised in support of Founders Heritage Park.

The delay in the timing of the Fair from earlier this year due to the COVID-19 shutdown meant donations of books, puzzles and other mixed media reached an all-time high.

The 10-day fair, held from 17-26 October, drew an estimated 10,900 people and raised a new record of $157,000, an increase of $6700 on last year.

The funds will be used to pay for improvements and new displays at Founders Heritage Park.

Founders Book Fair Co-ordinator Karen Clark said the overall feedback from the public and volunteers was that this year’s fair was enjoyable and relaxed.

Good quality books donated by the public, great community support from those who attended and bought items from the fair, and the year-round dedication and expertise of the volunteers ensured another excellent result for the fair and for Founders Heritage Park.

“We were well supported by members of the Rotary Club of Nelson, the Rotary Club of Whakatu, the Nelson Lionesses and Nelson City Council staff. The fair could not exist without the generous commitment of all of these organisations, and the 100 or so volunteers who help before and during the fair.

“Our team remains committed to improving the fair and looking for ways to support book sales throughout the year at Founders Heritage Park, and continue to seek ways to ensure next year’s fair is even more successful again.”