The Rotary Club of Sarnia Bluewaterland has announced it will not be hosting its used book sale this winter.
Committee member Dale Wilcox said they've been searching for a suitable location for the past few months, and have been unsuccessful.
"We were advised in December that due to construction in the [Lambton] Mall this spring they would be unable to accommodate us this year," said Wilcox.
She said the club checked with over 20 other locations, but none have come through.
"In some cases, the location was great, the parking would work, but the space could not be completely dedicated to us for the length of our sale as other activities are run in the facility. In other cases, space was available, but either too many stairs for all our books, tables, etc. and/or limited parking. One location was considered but being so far out of town, we know donors would hesitate to drive that far to drop off used books."
Wilcox said the full impact of their decision to cancel the event is unknown.
"Many organizations in our community benefited from the funds raised by the sale last year. We were able to turn over all the proceeds, with the exception of $430.00 which covered rent and small sundry items for the running of the sale."
Wilcox said she and the group remain committed to searching for a suitable location so the sale can return.
"If something is suggested to us that will work for next year, we will start planning it as soon as we can make any arrangements. We appreciate that within our community so many people have contacted us looking for the sale and so many more have contacted me, looking to donate books."
It's estimated that over 20,000 books were sold in 2022.
Over $30,000 was raised and distributed to local organizations, including: the Inn of the Good Shepherd, Habitat for Humanity, the Alzheimer’s Society, Kidney Foundation and Literacy Lambton.