Donating Materials

Donating Materials to the Library

Here’s what we love to receive:

• Fiction – current or former bestsellers, published in the last two years
• Nonfiction – on topics appealing to the general reader, published in the last three years
• Paperbacks – bestseller fiction and nonfiction in like-new condition
• Classics – in excellent condition
• Historical material – with information pertinent to Reading history
• Children’s books – hardcover picture books or paperback chapter books, in very good condition
• DVDs – purchased (not copied) , with covers in good condition, up to ten per week
• Audiobooks – abridged or unabridged
• CDs – popular titles

We do not need extra issues or old runs of magazines.  We cannot accept videotapes, encyclopedias or textbooks.

Please limit your donation to one bag or box per week. The Library simply doesn’t have enough room to accept more.  All donations must be brought to the blue cart on the main floor of the library.   Donations will not be accepted through our bookdrop.

All donated items will be sold in the Friends Book Sale Room.  Proceeds benefit the library.   For more information about the Friends of the Reading Public Library go here.

What Else Can You Do With Your Old Books?
Unfortunately the Library simply does not have space to house all of the books people want to discard. Who or what organization might want all your cartons of old books?

In General:

• Some of your books may be valuable. Contact a used book dealer to find out.
• Donate your books to a nursing home.
• Donate your books to a prison.
• Donate your books to churches or temples (often for book sales).
• Donate your books to shelters.
• Check the Yellow Pages or the Human Services Yellow Pages for addresses and phone numbers.

Specific Groups Accepting Book Donations:

Reading Tree
(888) 402 BOOK (888 402 2665)

Got Books?
Donate at any of the Reading Elementary schools
Phone: 978 416 8288

Please check at the Information Desk for more information on these organizations.