The annual Cabin Fever Book and Bake Sale (which ran March 4th and March 5th) was a fun event that greeted you at the door with a large table full of homemade baked goods. After stocking up there, it was time to head downstairs and check out the tables and tables of books for sale in a variety of genres. There was something here for everyone and I had no problem filling three bags of books. Librarian Susanna Carey told me that this sale "helps to supplement the library greatly" and if you like the smell of tasty goodies, or old books (or both) – this is the place for you.  

The Au Sable Forks Free Library – part of the Clinton Essex Franklin Library System ("CEFLS") – was built in 1968 and is considered a free library with association memberships. [Librarian Susanna Carey told me that "this means that while initially books were "rented," some patrons now donate ten dollars a year to help with covering the overhead of running a library so that is free to patrons."] The library has a lovely atmosphere where you can find plenty of books, audio-books, magazines and an extensive children's literature section.

Among the unique collections at the library is a large section of Adirondack books and material, soon to be housed in a specially-renovated room of its own. I took a peek in the nearly finished room, which was lovely and welcoming, and looks like it will be great for doing Adirondack research and reading. Notably, this collection includes a great Rockwell Kent section – filled with framed prints, beautiful original books, and even collector pieces such a Kent-designed hand-painted plate from 1939.

The warm and cozy room dedicated to children's books has an imaginative shelving system in the center of the room where colorful wooden boxes painted like train cars hold the books. The room serves the library well, and the library is dedicated to offering special programs for children – for example, a special St. Patrick's Story time later in March (for children ages 3+ with a parental companion). Stories, crafts, and a snack are are common at these free events. Carey says, "It is wonderful to have children at the library...I believe that it is very important to engage and connect children with the library at a young age in order to help provide access to books and an interest in the library." She underscores the importance of the children's programs, saying that "the library needs to meet children at their needs and help them where we can."

The first time I came to the Au Sable Forks Free Library, I was amazed at the extensive DVD and VHS collection. Being a big book and library lover, I've visited many of the libraries in the system, and rarely have I found such large collections of movies. It wasn't the size alone that impressed me, but also the wide range of titles available – including loads of recognizable titles, new independent films, documentaries, and family/children's programs. Carey told me, "Our DVD/Video collection has grown over the years to meet the demand of patrons...we make it part of our yearly budget to include a small selection of current releases."

If you're near Au Sable Forks during library hours, be sure to stop in for a visit and browse the wide selection of books – especially the Adirondack and Kent collections. Remember – if you have a CEFLS library card, you are a part of this great system and can come to Au Sable Forks and check out books! Check back here at Lakeplacid.com for the next Cabin Fever Book and Bake Sale and other fun events at the Au Sable Forks Free Library.