Even in today’s world, when tech-savvy readers can access thousands of books on devices they keep in their pockets, no device can replicate the look and feel of an actual paperback or hardcover book.

Even more precious to some is the experience of reading a used book, to discover what another person has already read. Whether its pages have been dog-eared or the cover is starting to unfurl, no two book is alike, even if those that share the same title.

Later this month, local readers will have the chance to pick a few second-hand books, as the Dowagiac Lady Library Association holds its annual book sale. The sale will run four days, just in time for the Summer in the City Festival, staring on July 24.

The schedule is as follows:

• Thursday, July 24: 9 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.

• Friday, July 25: 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

• Saturday, July 26 and Monday, July 28: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

People are encouraged to stop by the library and pick up some books during the sale. They can also donate their own used books to the LLA, which already has a sizable collection of fiction and non-fiction books they plan on offering later this month.

Heading the organization of this year’s sale is Lisa Green, who was recently elected as president of the LLA. She and the 11 other members of the association, which has been around since 1872, have used funds from their book sale and other donations to help fund projects at the Dowagiac District Library.

“We’re here to help the library, to keep improving it,” Green said. “We’re all very passionate about keeping it, not just for the children, but for readers of ages.”

In the past, funds from the LLA have gone toward several improvements to the local library, which are selected from a wish list given to organization by the library director. Some projects they contributed funds to the past include the installation of remote control blinds and the purchase of new children’s books.

“Everybody who is obviously on the association also goes to the library to check things out,” Green said. “We like the library, and we’re glad that’s in the community and in the downtown area.”

During the sale, shoppers can expect to find a variety of books, especially those in the non-fiction category, with subjects ranging from gardening, sports, self-help, region and politics, Green said. While the book prices will vary, typically hardcovers cost around $1 and paperbacks cost around 75 cents, she added.

“For $10, you can get quite a few books,” she said.

Whether they’re looking for something new to read or just looking to support the library, visitors are encouraged to make a stop on Commercial Street during the summer festival to see what the sale has to offer.

“If you like to read, there’s something there for you, at a price you can’t beat,” Green said.