By NICOLE LOGGINS / Staff Writer

Columbiana – Ever wondered what that old rocking chair in the basement is worth? It’s time to find out.

The Central Alabama Antique and Appraisal Market will be held at Dr. Stancil Handley’s farm on March 3 from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. The Friends of the Columbiana Public Library organized the market, and proceeds will be used to fund new programs and expand existing programs.

“We looked at several large vacant buildings in Columbiana but I had mentioned the barn and we went out there and it was unanimous. It’s the perfect atmosphere,” Handley said.

Fran Sharp, secretary for the Friends of the Columbiana Public Library, said that instead of doing five little fundraising events through out the year, they decided to do one huge event.

“First we were going to do it on a small scale and then we thought ‘Why not do the whole enchilada?’ So we decided to open it up to central Alabama,” Sharp said.

According to Sharp, between 40-60 antique dealers and appraisers have been recruited to attend.

Although the appraisals will not be certified, they will be appraised by knowledgeable individuals who have extensive experience in antiques.

There are 13 categories for appraisals including toys, art, guns, pottery and glassware.

“Just usual things around your home and in the basement that you think may be of some value,” Sharp said.

The cost of general admission will be $5, and appraisals will cost an additional $5, each with a limit of three total appraisals. According to Sharp, the farm is within walking distance of Columbiana and plenty of parking will be available.

Sharp said there would be music, food and entertainment, including the Sexy Tractor Band and a DJ along with six food vendors.

“We expect it to be a wonderful fundraiser for the library,” Sharp said. “In strapped economic times cities are cutting back on their funding. But we expect it to be very well attended.”

Laurie Hackney, director of the Columbiana Public Library, said that the event is the “grandest thing” that the library has ever tried to do and that it could become a yearly event.

“We’re looking for it to be an event we can expand every year. We want it to be an event the whole state can participate in, not just Columbiana,” Handley said.