BAD Reads
We're the Library, NOT the Dump--Or, Think Before You Donate
Dear Readers of America:
Got some books and magazines you're planning on donating to the library?
Well, here's some thoughts after dealing with donations for over 20 years:
It's not like the flag--you can dispose of worn out, torn, tattered, moldy books without getting permission, or having a special ceremony! So please just toss these sort of books. We're only going to do the same when you dump them on us, so don't feel guilty about doing so!
Used coloring books, word search books, sticker books and the like are one time use books. Trash them after your kids have had their fun.
Dated textbooks are useless. Period. Generally so are encyclopedias and any sort of reference book that is regularly updated. Very few people need a copy of Congressional Quarterly that dates back to the first Bush administration, or a World Almanac from 1995. Libraries weed these books and replace them annually--so toss them without guilt.
Please, please, PLEASE call and ask before you bring us 50 years worth of National Geographic ! A lot of libraries have limited storage space and simply don't need old magazines. Usually either we've got a subscription to the ones you want to donate, or we don't need them because they're just too esoteric for our collection. Magazines usually will find good homes at nursing homes, hospitals, veterans homes and schools--places that have limited funds and high interest in such items.
Old bestsellers are generally of limited interest. Again, you may find them good homes at the institutions listed above, but call and check first.
Current paperbacks are usually very welcome. Most libraries have voracious readers of romance, science fiction and the like and seldom enough funds to keep up with the demand.
If you are looking for a tax right off, bear in mind:old books are NOT valuable just because they are old--check Amazon.com or www.abebooks.com if you want to see what I mean!
Years ago I had a lady donate a box of Readers Digest Condensed Books, which she told me she figured would be worth about $200 on her taxes. She was driving a Jaguar convertible, and if that's how she did her taxes, I think I know how she could afford such a car.......
I don't want to sound totally negative.We truly appreciate donations. Children's books that are donated often get added to our collection--or given to local organizations that really can use them. We sell tons of good quality donations (both adult and children's things) at book sales, and the money we make goes to paying for things the library can't afford--like special programs, or display racks, or things for the children's room.
But we spend wayyyyy to much time sorting out junk that people should have never even THOUGHT to bring to the library.So........
Follow the fridge rule: "If in doubt, throw it out!"
And call your library first and ASK before donating!
On behalf of weary librarians and library assistants everywhere,
Thanks from,
The Library Lady
