Checking out the donations of books ahead of the Taranaki Toy Library's Kid's Book Sale are, from left, Nathan Manning, Hannah Dunnet, and Hayley Manning.

Taranaki Toy Library is about to hold its annual Kids Book Sale.

With more than 60 banana boxes full of books already collected for the sale, held at Knox Church Hall in Fitzroy, people are sure to snap up a bargain or two for their children.

"Spending special time with your children is really important," Taranaki Toy Library co-ordinator Jana Dunnet said. "Toys fit in there as well as the books.

"It's creating happy families, special time together and helping the environment by re-using things. It's just opening up a whole lot of learning opportunities for them."

Last year, the toy library held its first book sale and raised $2754, which went towards new toys and offset day-to-day operating costs making membership more affordable.

"This year we invested some money into advertising and signs, so hopefully it will become bigger over time."

Dunnet explains the event was set up to fill the gap left by the popular 24-hour book sale, but the Kids Book Sale is different because it only features books suitable for children up to age 13.

"Parents still need to replace books as their children grow, interests are changing or old ones are wearing out."

The sale runs from 9am to 3pm on August 27 and it includes a children's play area with large toys available so parents can browse at their leisure. "We will also have a small selection of retired toy library toys for sale at bargain prices."

Last year Dunnet noticed the market was well visited by parents of preschoolers, but not so much by people with school-age children.

"We have a lot of donations. More than last year and especially a lot for school children this year because a lot of primary schools came on board and helped us collect. There's a great collection for bigger kids."

It's not too late to make donations. Books can be dropped off at the library on 524 Devon Street East on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday mornings from 9am to noon, and Thursday nights from 6.30pm to 8.30pm.

For more details ring the library on 06 758 2444, email taranakitoylibraray@clear.net.nz or find it on Facebook.