BOOKWORMS will need to get in early to catch great bargains at the annual Friends of Doveton Library book sale on Australia Day.

Hundreds of books will be on sale, priced from 50 cents to $5. Magazine prices start from 10 cents.

Friends of Doveton Library secretary Cherry Andrew said they had not raised the prices in years because they liked to provide residents with good reading at good prices.

"The real gems go quickly and when we are set up for the day, people are ready to pounce," she said.

"There are all types of books for children, adults and readers with special interests. One man likes cowboy and westerns, so we usually keep a box aside for him."

Proceeds from the sale are used to fund library programs and other initiatives.

Doveton librarian Michelle Nicholls said the library collection was weeded every year to keep it fresh. "We buy so many new books, we don't have room for them all," she said.

Ms Andrew said one of the more interesting books she uncovered was about creating your own comic book.

Bookworms can burrow into a trove of books on gardening, cooking, art projects or Agatha Christie mysteries and other popular classics.

Some books are slightly damaged or discoloured but most are in excellent condition.

The sale, which runs from 10.30am-2.30pm, is part of Australia Day festivities in the area. A special storytime on Australian animals and craft is on at the library from 11.30am-12.15pm for children aged three to six.