Where to Donate Books – Clear out your used book clutter!

We all dream of having a full library in our homes. That elegant room stacked floor to ceiling with shelves full of classics, maybe even one of those sliding ladders. However, most of us only have space for a few shelves and they get full really easily.

So the question is, “where to donate books?” Your used books can have new life through many different charities and local organizations. All you need to do is drop off, arrange a pick up, or ship them to other readers eager to find a new read.

Here’s a comprehensive list of places to donate used books at no cost to you.

Charities and Nonprofits

There are many charities and nonprofits worldwide that specialize in used books. Your donation will help people find free and discounted books that they may not have the means for otherwise. The charities I’ve listed are the options that are available to the largest geographical locations. Keep in mind that there may be several local nonprofits in your area as well.

There are also many nonprofits that specialize in books but only accept cash donations to fund their mission. These are the options that will take your physical book donations.

The Salvation Army

The Salvation Army is one of the most recognizable charitable organizations in the US. They accept donations of way more than just books, everything from clothing to cars can go to help people in need through this nonprofit.

You can donate books by finding a drop off location, pickup, or a physical thrift store location. All donations are tax deductible.

Goodwill

Goodwill is another large thrift store chain that fills resale shops with used books, clothing, and other household items. Simply search their site to find a drop off location near you. This is the option I typically use just for convenience. About once a year or so I make a trip to drop off clothes and books that I no longer need.

Books for Africa

Books for Africa accepts donations of funds or books (new or gently used) and ships them to African communities. The service is available to anyone willing to ship their books to their hubs, it is also encouraged to include a small cash donation to cover the shipping to Africa but that is not mandatory.

As of today they have sent nearly 60,000,000 books across the African continent.

Operation Paperback

Operation Paperback connects books with active duty military members, veterans, and military families. Once you register and describe the types of books you have to give they’ll connect you with a veteran to ship to.

Local Community Organizations

There are many book donation opportunities all around your neighborhood as well. Go ahead and keep those books local with these organizations. You can also search for book donation bins near me to find specialty local organizations where you don’t even have to leave your car to recycle your used books.

Libraries

Most local libraries have some sort of book donation program in place. It’s best to check with them before showing up with a truckload of used books. They may have quality stipulations or simply not be able to handle any more donations at that time. As with any of these places to donate books you should make sure that the books are of good quality and not completely damaged.

Libraries in your area may also schedule book drives specifically to receive donations. Check their calendars to see when you can join.

Retirement Homes

Some retirement homes accept book donations. This also applies to daycare and assisted living centers. Call ahead to see if they’re accepting donations. Also, try to be respectful of the intended audience here. If you’re trying to donate old textbooks or children’s books it’d be best to look somewhere besides an assisted living facility.

Jails and Prisons

Correctional facilities can benefit greatly from having a full library for inmates. Incarcerated individuals can improve their quality of life both in and out of prison through reading and education materials.

This directory can help you connect with a prison donation program or you can call your local detention center to inquire about their needs.

Little Free Library

You may have seen these little book boxes around your neighborhood already. The Little Free Library campaign is run on a take a book leave a book policy where anyone can participate. Search their directory for a box near you and contribute with as many books as you can fit.

Used Book Stores

Probably the most obvious book donation spot is your local used book store. Some of these secondhand books stores will pay you a small stipend and some will only accept donations. Either way, your books get cycled back into the community and you can shop their selection while you’re there too.