By LINDA LONG/For the Reporter

Hidden treasures abound and could be as close as the nearest attic, garage or even child’s toy box.

Now you have a chance to find out just what that piece is worth at the second annual Central Alabama Antique and Appraisal Market, which is set for May 4-5 at Stancil Handley’s barn on Old Hwy 25 in Columbiana.

Sponsored by the Friends of the Columbiana Public Library, all proceeds from the fundraiser will help fund both children’s and adult programs and activities.

“We’re raising money now to install new shelving. What we have is old and badly needs to be replaced,” said Fran Sharp, vice-president of the Friends of the Columbiana Public Library.

The Friends were surprised at how successful their first venture into antique appraising turned out to be last year.

“It was in March and it was pouring down rain,” Sharp said. “Still, we had droves of people. It was so successful, we decided to repeat the event. We know we can make more money doing this than we can on bake sales for book sales,” she added.

The market is set up along the lines of television’s popular “Antiques Road Show.” Participants bring their items in for assessment from knowledgeable antiques dealers.

“We don’t have certified appraisers,” said Jane Keeton, president of the Friends of the Library. “ We have knowledgeable experts. We don’t claim this is a real appraisal but there will be someone there who can provide a little insight to you for the items you bring in.”

Fourteen categories are available for evaluation: Civil War memorabilia, clocks, costume jewelry, fine jewelry, ephemera (paper), furniture, glassware, guns, jukeboxes, pottery, textiles and toys.

“Toys are always a big item,” Keeton said. “Last year I remember we also had a lot of pottery and furniture, actually just a little bit of everything. ”

Sharp said the event also offers an opportunity for people to have vintage items assessed.

“These are things that are not quite 100 years old, but that are more than 50 (years old),” she said. “ Last year we saw a lot of things from the 40s and 50s.”

The full-day event also includes food, music and local artisans selling their wares and, of course, antique vendors from all over the state.

“We just have a really good time and, at the same time, help the library stretch their budget to do projects they wouldn’t otherwise be able to do,” Sharp said.

Tickets are $5 to attend the event and $5 per item for appraisal. The event will be held from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. on Saturday, May 4 and 1-5 p.m. on Sunday, May 5.