How to Recycle Books

Spring cleaning is just around the corner. And what to do with all of the books that are lying around cluttering the place. With the exception of some really good books that I want to save to read again or let family borrow it, I have come across several unique options to recycling books.

Donate:

• Local libraries may be open to taking donations especially if it's a new book on the bestseller's list. Check with your local libraries for upcoming books sales. Avid readers can take advantage of getting a lot of books for $1-$3 each, including hardcovers.
• Look in your phone book for used book stores. We have a few locally that give you credit towards purchasing book for each book you donate.
• Check with the pediatric offices or hospitals in your area to see if they would like donated childrens books.
• Begin a book exchange with family and friends.
• Create a drop off site at work for people to take a book and leave a book. Make sure you have a sign at the drop off site and that it's okay with your boss. I have also seen this at a daycare site for parents to take and leave books for other people to read.
• Donate to Goodwill or Salvation Army
• Books for Africa accepts picture books to encyclopedias to help fill libraries and classrooms with the exception of dictionaries, reference books that are 10 years older. Go to http://www.booksforafrica.org/ for more information
• http://www.intlbookproject.org/ accepts gently used books to donate to other countries. Download and print a label. The organization will send you a $1 tax credit for every pound of books donate.

Tell us how you recycle your books?