PENDLETON — The Pendleton Friends of the Library announced on its Facebook page Tuesday, Aug. 17, it was canceling its annual book sale.

Sean Degan, president of the nonprofit, stated the reason is the major surge in COVID-19 cases and the age and health of many of its volunteers.

“The health of our volunteers and also of the public is paramount,” according to the statement. “We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause, but the number of cases seems to be increasing weekly.”

Degan also stated Pendleton Friends of the Library looks forward to seeing the public at the book sale next year, Aug. 25-27.