Where to Donate Books in the United States: A Complete Guide

 

Where to Donate Books in the United States: A Complete Guide

If you have shelves full of books that you no longer read, donating them is a meaningful way to declutter while helping others. In the United States, there are countless organizations, charities, and local programs that accept book donations. Whether your books are for children, students, or general readers, there’s always someone who can benefit. So, if you’re wondering where to donate books in the United States, here’s a complete guide.

Why Donate Books?

Donating books does more than just free up space in your home. It:

  • Promotes literacy and education.

  • Supports nonprofits, schools, and libraries.

  • Reduces waste by giving books a second life.

  • Helps low-income families and communities gain access to reading materials.

Where to Donate Books in the United States

1. Local Libraries

Many public libraries accept gently used books to add to their collections or sell in fundraising events. Contact your nearest library to confirm donation policies.

2. Goodwill

Goodwill stores across the U.S. accept book donations. Your donated books are sold at affordable prices, and the proceeds support job training and employment programs.

3. Salvation Army

The Salvation Army accepts books along with other household items. Donations are either sold in thrift stores to fund community programs or given directly to people in need.

4. Habitat for Humanity ReStores

Some Habitat for Humanity locations accept book donations for resale. Funds raised help build homes for families in need.

5. Schools and Educational Programs

Local schools, after-school programs, and tutoring centers often welcome children’s and young adult books. Always check with the school administration first.

6. Prison Book Programs

Organizations like Prison Book Program or Books Through Bars provide books to incarcerated individuals to encourage education and personal growth.

7. Little Free Libraries

These community book-sharing boxes, found across neighborhoods in the U.S., allow you to drop off books for others to enjoy. Visit the Little Free Library map to find one near you.

8. Hospitals and Nursing Homes

Many healthcare facilities welcome donations of books to provide comfort and entertainment for patients and residents.

9. Online Donation Programs

Websites like Better World Books accept book donations by mail. They resell or donate books globally, and part of the proceeds go toward literacy projects.

Tips for Donating Books

  • Donate gently used books only (no torn, moldy, or heavily marked copies).

  • Separate books by category (children’s, fiction, educational, etc.).

  • Contact the organization ahead of time to confirm their guidelines.

Conclusion

If you’re asking yourself, “Where can I donate books in the United States?”, the answer is: everywhere! From local libraries and schools to Goodwill, Salvation Army, and online donation programs, your books can make a real difference. By donating, you’re not only decluttering your home but also spreading knowledge, joy, and education to those who need it most.

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