Where To Donate Used Books
It’s that time of year again. The time when you take a good hard look at your bookshelf and think to yourself, “Do we really need all of these books?” If you’re like most people, the answer is probably no. But what do you do with all of those gently used books? You can’t just throw them away, but you also don’t want them taking up space in your house. That’s why I’ve compiled a list of where to donate gently used books.
Tips For Donating Used Books
- Always call ahead and ensure that the organization you are donating books is accepting books. It’s also good to know their procedures as far as drop off times and locations.
- Remove any personal information from the book, such as phone numbers or addresses, bookmarks etc.
- Ensure that the book is in good condition, with no loose pages or water damage. If you are donating a slightly damaged book make sure to let the organization know.
Where To Donate Used Books Near Me
Donating books is a great way to give back to your community. Not only does it help keep books out of landfills, but it also provides people in need with access to reading materials. By donating your gently used books to local organizations or charities, you can help make a difference in your community.
There are plenty of organizations that accept gently used books, and some of them will even come pick them up from your house! Here are a few of our favorite place to donate used books in your community:
Local Schools
Many schools welcome book donations for their classrooms or libraries. Contact the principal or head librarian to see if they’re interested.
Local Library
Most public libraries have programs in place to accept donated books. Contact your local branch to find out more.
Little Libraries
You may be surprised to know that your community has tons of little libraries. A little library is a small, typically wooden structure that can be built in your yard or garden, and is often used to house gently used books for both adults and children. This is a great way to get the books into the hands of people who might not have access to them otherwise. Plus, it’s a great way to help out your community! Find your communities Little Libraries Here
Hospitals
Hospitals are always in need of children’s books to help entertain young patients during their stay. You can usually drop off donations at the main desk.
Senior centers
Many senior centers have reading rooms or lending libraries where residents can check out books. Donating books is a great way to help these facilities provide engaging activities for their residents.
Pediatricians Offices
Just like hospitals some pediatricians offices welcome gently used books for their waiting room, or to allow their patients to take home. Always a good idea to check to see if they are accepting gently used children’s books.
Homeless Shelters
Shelters are a great place to donate gently used children’s books. They are always looking for donations, and children’s books are always welcome. They can provide a much-needed distraction for kids who are going through a difficult time.
Community Centers
Community centers often have programs for kids, and they can use gently used children’s books as part of those programs. They may also have a lending library where people can check out books for free.
Facebook Groups
What you no longer need, someone else may be eager to take! There are many local Facebook groups that allow you to post free items. Consider posting in these groups to see if anyone would like the books for free.
Friends And Family
You may be surprised to learn that you have a friend or family member who would be interested in your gently books! You can send an email asking if they would like your gently used books, or you could consider placing them in a breakroom at work for people to take for free.
Book Drives
Many local organizations often host community book drives. The Girl Scouts organization often participates in book drives! Do a quick Google search or Facebook events search to see if your community is hosting a local book drive.
National Organizations To Donate Books
First Book
First Book is a national nonprofit that provides new books and educational resources to children in need. They have an easy-to-use online form where you can enter your information and they’ll send you a shipping label. Just box up your books and send them off!
Books For Keeps
If you have any beloved classics that you’re looking to get rid of, why not donate them to Books for Keeps? This Georgia-based organization provides free books to kids in need, and they’re always looking for new titles to add to their collection.
Kids Need To Read Program
Kids Need to Read is a national nonprofit organization that provides new and gently used books to children in need. The program partners with literacy programs, schools, and community organizations to provide books to children who wouldn’t otherwise have access to them.
Better World Books
Better World Books collects used books and sells them online, with proceeds going to support literacy initiatives worldwide. They have a network of over 2,000 college campuses where you can drop off your donations, or you can print a shipping label and send them directly to their warehouse.
Prison Books Program
The prison books program is a great way to donate gently used books. The books are given to inmates who are looking for something to read. The program helps to keep the inmates occupied and helps to improve their reading skills.
Reader To Reader
The Reader to Reader program is a great way to get gently used books into the hands of people who will appreciate them. It’s a great way to get rid of books you no longer need, and it’s also a great way to find new books to read.
Books For Africa
Books for Africa is a program that collects and sends books to African countries. The books are often used in schools, libraries, and other community organizations. Books for Africa also partners with other organizations to distribute books throughout the continent.
Donating Used Books
Donating gently used children’s books is a great way to declutter your home and help out your community at the same time. So next time you’re looking to get rid of some old books, keep this list in mind! There are plenty of organizations that would love to put them to good use.
