Canberra residents are set to line up well before daybreak this Friday, eager to be among the first through the doors of the Lifeline Canberra Bookfair at Exhibition Park in Canberra (EPIC). The three-day event, running from February 5 to 7, 2026, continues to attract dedicated book lovers who arrive in the early hours, creating a vibrant community atmosphere in the queue.
Early Morning Enthusiasm and Community Spirit
Lifeline Canberra CEO Carrie-Ann Leeson anticipates a large crowd when the bookfair opens at 9am on Friday. She notes that while past attendees have camped overnight, current security measures encourage people to arrive from 2am to 4am instead. "They pull up a chair and get comfortable, and there's such a good vibe in the queue before the doors open because everyone is familiar with one another," Ms Leeson said. "They've been spending time together, talking about what they want to get."
Rare Finds and Collectible Treasures
While most books are sorted by genre, the fair features a special room at EPIC for itemised collectibles. Highlights this year include a dictionary from the 1700s, following recent online sales like a first edition Harry Potter that fetched $4000. Volunteers from Radford College and Canberra Grammar School have been preparing the event since Monday, arranging books, puzzles, records, CDs, DVDs, maps, and calendars for sale.
Critical Funding for Crisis Support Services
The bookfair serves as the primary revenue source for Lifeline Canberra's 24/7 telephone counselling service. With nearly 45,000 people in Canberra—almost 10% of the population—reaching out annually, demand remains high. "People are feeling the stresses and strains of the economic environment at the moment," Ms Leeson explained, noting increased calls after events like the Reserve Bank's cash rate hike or the Bondi tragedy.
Volunteer Efforts and Quality Assurance
Kevin Paule, a volunteer for two years in the games and puzzles section, emphasises the importance of checking items for completeness to maximise funds. "If we can make more money for Lifeline by checking a good-quality puzzle is complete, we can ask a higher price for it," he said. This attention to detail helps support the charity's vital work.
Event Details and Community Activities
The Lifeline Canberra Bookfair runs at EPIC on Friday from 9am to 6pm, Saturday from 9am to 5pm, and Sunday from 9am to 4pm. Entry is by gold coin donation, with a Family Day on Saturday from 10am to 1pm featuring facepainting and balloon twisting. The event not only offers literary treasures but also fosters community engagement for a crucial cause.
