Youd think the library would want your used books!
But outside of the occasional used-book sale, libraries usually only get their books from specific vendors.
By dumping your used books on them, youre actually creating work for volunteers and making things worse.
She explained whats so bad about dumping your books on the library, and why they dont want them.
Ask First
Almost all libraries have a well-defined policy on donations, says Anderson.
So look it up before you cart your books over.
Ask them whodoeswant your used books, and theyll usually have an answer ready.
And if the library does want your books, you dont have to read this post!
Most Libraries Cant Use Your Books
Anderson knows that would-be donors have good intentions.
Picture that embarrassing kind of person, throwing a fit because they didnt do their research.
Never be that person!
Instead, libraries buy from vendors.
And buying the physical book isnt the only part that costs money.
They have to assign that barcode and add the book to the catalog.
Libraries never have enough staff time.
The library also needs space to shelve each new book.
(They wont always need 23 copies of last years John Grisham.)
If you donate those, again, youre creating work for the library.
As mentioned, there are other exceptions, which you learned when you googled your librarys donation policy!
What to Donate Instead
you’re able to still help!
Most libraries will happily take your (tax-deductible) monetary donations.
You could make money (or store credit) by selling them to a used bookstore.
Or, and this will shock you,youre allowed to throw them out.
Its part of the book circle of life!
It might feel weird!
But theyre also produced in mass quantities, and now theyre all digitized as well.
Otherwise dont worry, there are plenty of copies somewhere for anyone who wants to read them.
If your library doesnt have this book, suggest that they buy a copy.
Theyd rather have a new one from a vendor, honestly.
Anderson points out that almost everywhere in the country, books are recyclable.
So your old bookswillget a second life, as an Amazon box for your new books.
