Lifeline’s Big Book Fair is on this weekend and will again showcase one of the biggest collections of books ever seen in the Illawarra. And science enthusiasts beware, our book sorters have found something quite rare!

:During the year, a range of science books were donated to the Big Book Fair. And one fascinating item in that collection was an 1872 final sixth edition copy of Darwin’s Origin of Species. Grahame Gould, Lifeline South Coast Executive Director says it is very exciting to be able to show the public such a wonderful treasure. “It is the 150th anniversary of the first edition of Origin of Species this year so it is wonderful for us to be able to showcase this influential work,” he said. “The price has been set at $500 and the book will be available for viewing at the ‘buy a bag’ table located in the centre of the room. I encourage everyone to take a look.” More than 60,000 books will be on display over the course of the three-day event and will be arranged in more than 50 categories. Some categories include fiction, history, travel, cooking, gardening, music, sport, science and many more. There will be something there for everyone. Lifeline volunteers have spent hundreds of hours sorting through the many thousands of book donations to ensure there is a great selection on offer. Lifeline’s Big Book Fair will be held on Friday 16th, Saturday 17th, and Sunday 18th October 2009 between 10am and 4pm at the Kembla Grange Racecourse. Entry to the event is via gold coin donation and eftpos will be available. “We will again have a book collection point in the car park so people can bring their books along with them and donate them before they enter,” Grahame said. “It’s a great way to clean out some space on your shelves at home for all the great titles you will be sure to find inside. And by simply donating five books or more, you could win a great prize.” Lifeline’s Big Book Fair is the major fundraising event for Lifeline South Coast. Funds raised at the Fair go toward supporting Lifeline’s 24-hour telephone counselling service in the Illawarra and South Coast. Contrary to popular belief, Lifeline receives only 20% of its funding from the government. Lifeline South Coast is a local service, which means that the funds raised locally stay here in our community and allow local people to talk about their problems and find ways to solve them. End Grahame Gould is available for interview by calling 4228 1311 or 0409 912 391

Contact: Grahame Gould

Phone: 0409 912 391