General News
4 December, 2025
Beloved book collection to be sold
TERANG’S Harold Eller is preparing to part with an expansive collection of books which he has spent the better part of six decades collecting.
Mr Eller believes he might be hosting the largest individual sale of books in the town’s history this weekend as he looks to rehome thousands of books through a garage sale.
“Jeanette (wife) and I arrived in Terang 56 years ago, and I’ve been a big collector of books ever since,” he said.
“I’m a big reader and I’ve accumulated a large number of books.
“There’s an overflow of books from the house into the shed.”
Mr Eller said her has made the decision as it was time for he and his wife to downsize but, in doing so, knew it was time for the expansive collection to find the imaginations of new readers.
“I turn 86 next week so it is time to downsize – our house has 12 steps and a big garden, but we’re lucky to be downsizing in Terang,” he said.
“We love Terang and are committed to staying in Terang.
“We’ve found a smaller townhouse – we think we’ll be happy there, but the only problem is all of my books have to go.”
Mr Eller said he believed there would be something for everyone among the collection which spans fiction and non-fiction alike, with a notable interest in history.
“There’s a lot of Australian fiction and Australian history,” he said.
“The history of both the First and Second World War is quite prominent in the collection but there is also a lot of local history.
“There are even some art books.
“I’m a very eclectic reader – I’ve read just about everything, so no matter what your preference is you will be almost certain to find something which appeals to you among the collection.”
While the collection certainly was not cheap at the time of purchase, Mr Eller said he would be under-pricing the collection in a bid to ensure it all goes.
“I’m caught between selling them for what they’re worth and under-pricing them to make sure they do depart,” he said.
“I think I’ve been reasonable because I’d like to see them all go, and I’m also prepared to bargain.
“Make an offer, and you’ll probably get the book.”
The garage sale will be held this Saturday, December 6, from 9am-4pm at 26A Bolivar Street, Terang.
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