The annual used book sale at the Arizona State Fairgrounds is a highly anticipated event for readers, collectors, educators, and bargain hunters throughout the Phoenix area. Hosted by the Volunteer Nonprofit Service Association, the sale takes place each February and transforms the fairgrounds into a massive marketplace filled with affordable books and media. What began as a small fundraising effort has grown into one of the largest used book sales in the Southwest, drawing thousands of visitors each year.
The Volunteer Nonprofit Service Association, originally known as the Visiting Nurse Service Auxiliary, first held a book sale in 1957. That initial event raised just $900, but it established a tradition that continues more than six decades later. Today, the organization remains committed to its mission of supporting local human service agencies in Maricopa County through the proceeds of the sale. The funds raised benefit nonprofits that focus on literacy, education, health, and the arts, strengthening the community in meaningful ways.
Shoppers attending the sale can expect an enormous selection, with hundreds of thousands of gently used books and media items available. The inventory includes fiction and nonfiction titles, children’s books, textbooks, rare and collectible volumes, DVDs, CDs, puzzles, games, and maps. Items are organized by category, making it easier for visitors to browse, while prices remain significantly lower than retail, allowing people to leave with bags or boxes of books at a fraction of the cost.
The sale will be held at the Ag Center Building on the Arizona State Fairgrounds February 14th and 15th, 2026, giving attendees ample opportunity to explore the selection. Admission to the sale is free, though parking fees are determined by the fairgrounds. Many attendees arrive early, knowing that the experience often feels like a treasure hunt, with unexpected discoveries waiting on every table and shelf.
What truly sets the used book sale apart is the role of volunteers. A dedicated group of community members works year-round to collect, sort, and price donations. Their efforts ensure that donated materials are transformed into financial support for local charities. Through their work, the sale not only promotes reading and reuse but also turns community generosity into lasting social impact.
The used book sale at the Arizona State Fairgrounds is more than a shopping event. It is a celebration of books, volunteerism, and community support. For many attendees, it has become an annual tradition that combines the joy of reading with the satisfaction of giving back.
Reference
Volunteer Nonprofit Service Association. (n.d.). About the VNSA used book sale. https://vnsabooksale.org/about
