How To Get Rid Of Old Books?

There are several ways to get rid of old books. For some people, this process is as simple as taking them to the local library and letting the staff sort them out. That is a great idea and one that works most of the time. But it certainly isn’t the only option for people who have collected dozens, even hundreds of books through the years.

One thing you’ll have to keep in mind when donating books to the library is that they will have to be in good shape to make it onto the shelves. In fact, books that are relatively new and unmarked are about the only books that can become part of the library collection. In many cases, the library may already have a hardcover copy of the books you donate and won’t need them. But it still wouldn’t hurt to contact the library staff and ask them to look at the books. They may some suggestions for where to take the books if the library isn’t going to keep them.

Donate, Sell
If the library option isn’t open to you, go to the local schools, residence homes and nursing homes, the Goodwill store etc. and ask them if they would like your old books. In many cases they will just say yes and ask you to put them in the “incoming” area or in the office. Volunteer staff members will go through the books and decide if there are some that can be put on the shelves for sale, for residents to read and so on.

If you are close to a store that sells used books, take your collection to that store and see if they are interested in any particular volumes. Some used book stores are more selective than others and will ask for a list of titles first. This will save them (and you) time and effort. If they find individuals books that look promising, they will ask you to bring them in for evaluation. As with library donations, selling books to used-book stores means taking items that are in good, clean condition. They shouldn’t have excessive markings, torn pages etc. Take them the kind of books you would like to buy!

Other Ideas
Here are some other great ideas for getting rid of old books. Take them to a large business or factory that has a break room and waiting room. The office people might be interested in having some of the books in those locations. Talk to neighbors, family members and friends about book exchanges and book clubs. This will help circulate books among people you know are avid readers.

Go to the World Wide Web. That’s right; the Internet gives you several opportunities to get rid of those books that are taking up a lot of room. You can sell your books online. Just go to your search engine, type in “sell used books” and see what comes up. You will be amazed at the opportunities.

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