More than 15,000 books up for grabs

A library organization is hosting its annual fall book sale. Book-buyers have more than 15,000 titles to choose from at the Memorial Library in Room 116 through Saturday. Sale organizers said the used book sale is one of the largest in Wisconsin

The Friends of the University of Wisconsin-Madison Libraries sale takes place over four days with its proceeds benefitting a variety of events, special collections and a lecture series.

The annual book-buy event began Wednesday but continues Friday from 10:30 a.m.-7 p.m and Saturday from 10:30 a.m.-2 p.m. From 10:30 a.m.-1  p.m. Saturday, shoppers who bring a grocery-sized bag can fill it for $4. From 1:05 p.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, all remaining books are free, the library said.

Book prices are also reduced each day of the sale, but organizers said the books sell quickly.

A second annual event for families affected by Rett Syndrome will take place at the Capitol building Saturday.

The international Blue Sky Girls event will take place closest to State Street at 10 a.m.  Attendees are asked to wear purple, the Rett Syndrome awareness color, to show support.

City of Madison firefighters will attend the event and assist girls that need assistance climbing to the top.  Madison Fire Department Chief David will also participate.

Governor Scott Walker recently signed a proclamation declaring October to be Rett Syndrome Awareness Month.  Twenty-four states and seven countries will participate in similar ceremonies simultaneously.

Climbing stairs is a symbolic gesture, said a press release, because climbing takes you upward and forward.  The majority of girls and women with Rett Syndrome are unable to walk or climb stairs unassisted, the press release said.

The Colombia Support Network will celebrate their 25th anniversary beginning Saturday.

A speaking tour will be held from Oct. 6 to 17 in Madison.  The tour will kick off with an opening celebration in the Great Hall at the Memorial Union.

Sunday, the group will speak at 9 a.m. and 11 1.m. at the United Church of Christ in Fitchburg.  On Tuesday, Oct. 9, a 7 p.m. talk will be given at Edgewood College entitled "How the United Nations have been present in the life of the Peace Community."  Additional events will be held at UW-Madison and throughout the community.

CSN works to "defend human rights and advocate for a negotiated solution to the Colombian conflict through strengthening civilian society and giving support to grassroots groups," said a press release.

For more information about CSN of the speaking tour, visit colombiasupport.net/ or call 608-257-8753.