Friends of New Orleans Public LibraryGoodbye Marsalis Harmony Park, Hello City Park — A Legacy of Book Sales Continues
For nearly 20 years, the Arts Market at Marsalis Harmony Park has been a cornerstone of Friends of the New Orleans Public Library. More than just a book sale, the Arts Market has been a means of connection for the community, embodying the heart of our organization. And the women who have made this market happen for so many years are nothing short of superheroes.
In 2006, Cindy began selling books at what was then the Arts Market at Palmer Park to raise funds for the Library in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. As a long-time kindergarten teacher, Cindy understood the importance of access to high-quality books at affordable prices.
It wasn’t long before Cindy’s friends, Linda and Carol, joined in to help. Over time, the Arts Market at Marsalis Harmony Park grew, becoming a community staple. Month after month, Friends of the New Orleans Public Library showed up, and the community came to support us, browsing and buying books.
To Carol, who doesn’t remember exactly how long she’s been part of the Arts Market—only that it’s been “a long time”—a day selling books at Marsalis Harmony Park meant joy and community. “It’s a nice way to spend a day,” she reflects. And who could argue? Being outside in the park, sipping coffee, and talking about books is an idyllic description of a day by most standards. “The only thing missing is a gourmet meal, but you can’t have everything,” she jokes.
But the Arts Market was more than just a pleasant way to pass the time—it fostered community. By selling used books, Friends was providing a space for people to browse, relax, and chat with their neighbors. Providing this space for the community took a lot of effort, and many hands worked together to make it happen. Volunteers packed boxes of books in the basement of Latter Library and hauled them to the market. Community members stored supplies in their nearby homes. Readers donated their finished books before buying new ones. It was a collective effort in every sense.
Looking ahead, the Arts Market at Marsalis Harmony Park will now be held only for holiday markets. This change marks the end of an era for the Friends, and while it is bittersweet to say goodbye to a tradition so integral to our organization, we are excited for the future of Friends book sales. Though Marsalis Harmony Park will no longer host a monthly market, you will still see us at the Arts Market at City Park every month.
On the last Saturday of each month from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., we will be on the Great Lawn of City Park, selling used books and continuing the legacy of connection and joy that Cindy, Linda, Carol, and so many others have nurtured.
Join us at the Arts Market at City Park on the last Saturday of each month, located at 8 Victory Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70119. We can’t wait to see you there!
Visit the Arts New Orleans website to stay up-to-date with the Arts Market and other events.