What’s in Your Attic?
Friends of the Swarthmore Public Library is seeking donations for an auction to support the library.
Or your jewelry box — perhaps that gold bracelet you no longer wear? How about the bottom kitchen drawer — a sterling silver bon-bon dish? Maybe there’s an oil painting stashed away in a closet, or an old car, perfect for a teenager, in your garage, or a musical instrument no one ever plays. The Swarthmore Public Library may be interested, according to Betty Dowling, president of Friends of the Swarthmore Public Library (FOSwPL).
“Because we have not been able to hold our semi-annual book and bake sales due to COVID-19, the Friends of the Library has been seeking a way to make up that lost financial support, which amounts to 25% of the library’s annual budget,” says Dowling. To overcome that deficit, FOSwPL is working with Rob Borgstrom, proprietor of waR3house3 (and co-publisher of the Swarthmorean), on plans for an auction, to be held in January.
According to Borgstrom, “An auction of significant items offers a two-way benefit. The library will receive the necessary funds to continue providing its services. Donors will receive the satisfaction of helping a local institution.” The auction will be handled by Briggs Auction, Inc., of Garnet Valley, through its online platform.
The committee hopes to receive:
Jewelry and precious metals.
Antiquarian and first-edition books.
Military artifacts (uniforms, swords, medals).
Vehicles.
American and European art.
Danish or Swedish midcentury modern furniture.
Historically recognized decorative arts (pottery, lighting, textiles).
Model trains.
American coins.
Musical instruments.
Designer furniture (e.g. Stickley, Baker, Henkel-Harris, Kittinger).
During the weeks leading up to the January auction, Swarthmorean readers will be able to find further specific information about donation criteria and the process for donating.
“Think of the process like a mini-Antiques Roadshow,” Borgstrom says. “We are seeking items that would support a starting bid of $100 and can be auctioned from that point.”
“This will be a true community affair,” adds Dowling. “You will feel good helping the library with your donation, and who knows what treasure you may find at the auction!”
The auction committee includes Sheila Bell, Diann Brown, Rebecca Carovillano, Louise Coffin, Betty Dowling, Chris Gradel, Godlind Johnson, Dave Ryba, and Virginia Williams Joyce. Its advisors are Rob Borgstrom and Stephen Turner. For additional information, contact Betty Dowling at foswpl@gmail.com. Make an appointment for Borgstrom to evaluate your donations.
