The annual Schoen Books charity sale is returning next weekend, as the store looks to continue its tradition of raising money for local organizations.

The sale will be held Sunday, May 7, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. outside the store, at 7 Sugarloaf St. in South Deerfield. The event will offer a “cornucopia” of fiction, history and Judaica books for sale, all at a price set by the buyer. A rain date is set for May 14.

Bookstore owner Ken Schoen said he’s looking to support local charities in Franklin and Hampshire counties such as Rachel’s Table, Manna Kitchen, Stone Soup Cafe, Cancer Connection and area survival centers, although customers can choose whatever charity they want. The sale is sponsored by the Jewish Historical Society of Western Massachusetts.

“People take what they want and pay what they want, and they have an option to make out the check [or cash] to a local charity,” Schoen explained, adding that the book sale has raised thousands of dollars in the last few years. “It’s a wonderful event for the community and people get to meet each other. You’d be surprised at people striking up conversations about books.”

Among the selection of books include modern European history, “lots of Judaica” fiction, as well as children’s books. Schoen said folks can drop off books up until the sale, however, they should “be in good shape and books that people want.”

“Stuff that’s readable and that they want to share with their neighbors,” he said. “It’s a celebration of the book.”

While Schoen’s book sale is happening, Deerfield will also be celebrating Founders Day weekend to mark its 350th birthday. Schoen also noted his store is right next to the Giving Circle Thrift Shop, as well as other businesses in South Deerfield.

“It’s a good combination of things where people can go out celebrating and get some books,” Schoen said. “Hopefully it’ll be a nice sunny day.”

More information about Schoen Books can be found at schoenbooks.com.

Chris Larabee can be reached at clarabee@recorder.com or 413-930-4081.

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