Never underestimate Kreutz Creek Library. When it comes to book sales, the Hellam-based branch packs a powerful punch.

"We will have over 18,000 books for sale," said Edward Ritter book sale chair. "We are probably one of the largest book sales in southcentral Pennsylvania."

Kreutz Creek Library will host its spring sale on Friday, May 3, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., and on Saturday, May 4, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. It will be held at the Hellam Township Public Works Building, 44 Walnut Springs Road, York.

"There is a great selection of books available for all sorts of readers," Ritter shared. "We have Golden Books and popular Easy Readers. We also have a good selection of large-print books. (We have) fiction and nonfiction, hardbacks, paperbacks and trade paperbacks. We also have a lot of audiobooks for this sale due to a very generous donation." All books are clean and in good or better condition.

In addition to books, the sale will feature baked goods for purchase, including cookies, brownies and cupcakes.

Managed by the Friends of Kreutz Creek Library, the book sale raises funds to support operating expenses of the branch, which is part of the York County Libraries system. "That includes a portion of staff salaries and benefits, costs to add to library collections - books, magazines and movies - and facility operating expenses," Ritter commented.

On Saturday, from noon until the sale ends, all items will be sold at a 50% discount. Ritter also noted that the book sale relies on support from outside businesses and organizations, including Flinchbaugh's Orchard and Farm Market, Jack Giambalvo Family of Dealerships, Hellam Fire Company and Hellam Township.

Members of the community help with the sale by setting up, staffing and cleaning up afterward, said Jennifer Johnson, library manager. "It's like a well-oiled machine," she remarked. "At the event, you can't help but notice the energy and enthusiasm of the volunteers."

She noted that she's always impressed with the community support for purchasing books as well. "People's enthusiasm for books continues to amaze me," she said. "People still enjoy the look and feel of print books. The excitement and anticipation for the sale shows us how much this community has a heart for literacy and understands the value of supporting its local library."

The Friends of Kreutz Creek Library accepts donated books throughout the year. Open donation dates are posted at the library or can be found at http://www.yorklibraries.org/hellam-kreutz-creek.