The Brown County Historical Society (BCHS) Annex building was filled with shoppers hunting for bargains on discount books Friday, April 24. The BCHS hosted its annual book sale last weekend. The book sale will continue Saturday with a final push with the remaining books placed on discount. (Photo by Clay Schuldt)

NEW ULM — The shelves at the Brown County Annex building were brimming last weekend as the annual book sale kicked off, drawing local readers and collectors to hunt for their next great read.

It wasn’t just books flying off the tables this week; the puzzle section proved to be one of the most popular corners of the Annex. While the sale began last weekend with hundreds of options, ranging from 100-piece sets to massive 1,000-piece challenges, organizers noted that by the end of the day, many had already found new homes.

“We were able to take in all kinds of nice books and so many puzzles,” said Brown County Historical Society volunteer Eileen Jacobson.

While the past weekend has already seen a steady stream of visitors, the biggest deals are yet to come. 

Jacobson is encouraging the entire community to stop by for the final push with a special sale on Saturday, May 2.

“I want to tell everybody to come out on Saturday!” Jacobson said. “Everything is half price at the Brown County Annex building. It’s a wonderful chance to pick up something special.

For those who really want to maximize their haul, Saturday also features the highly anticipated “Bag Sale.”

Between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m., shoppers can fill a bag for just $5. It is the ultimate opportunity for educators, parents, and bibliophiles to stock up for the summer months ahead.

Proceeds from the sale go toward supporting the Brown County Historical Society, ensuring that the stories of our region are preserved as carefully as the books on the shelves.