There were tots looking for new picture books and a shopper searching for books for a 104-year-old mom.

The Friends of the Dartmouth Libraries hosted its annual book sale at Southworth Library from April 28 to April 30. The event appeals to a vast age range, noted Friends member Mary Ellis, in telling the story of the person shopping for the centenarian.

The Friends are often praised for their meticulous organizational system, said organizer Anne Markowski. She and 25 to 30 board members and volunteers sifted through the piles of donated books, categorized them by genre, and set them up in the library for the public to peruse. Subjects from art and architecture to pets and gardening were available.

The volunteers spent two whole days sorting and setting up, and on April 27, the book sale opened specially for collectors and Friends members to get the best picks.

The Friends have become a little more selective in what they accept for books, Markowski said. In only accepting books in great condition, the group is able to donate any left over from the sale to Discover Books, a website that sells used books at discounted rates.

All proceeds raised through book sales and Friends membership fees pay for library programs, museum and park discounts, new equipment for Southworth, movie licenses to screen films, and other special events.