Where to Donate Books Brooklyn: A Literary Odyssey Through the Borough's Shelves

Brooklyn, a borough synonymous with creativity and community, offers a plethora of options for those looking to donate books. Whether you’re a bibliophile with a surplus of novels or a parent with a stack of children’s books, Brooklyn’s diverse donation spots cater to every literary need. Here’s a comprehensive guide to where you can donate books in Brooklyn, ensuring your beloved tomes find new homes and continue to inspire readers.

1. Brooklyn Public Library (BPL)

The Brooklyn Public Library is a cornerstone of the borough’s literary scene. With 60 branches spread across Brooklyn, the BPL welcomes book donations that can be added to their collections or sold in their book sales to fund library programs. Before donating, it’s advisable to check with your local branch to ensure they are currently accepting donations and to understand any specific guidelines they may have.

2. Housing Works Bookstore Café

Located in the heart of Brooklyn, Housing Works Bookstore Café is a nonprofit organization that supports individuals living with HIV/AIDS. They accept book donations, which are then sold in their bookstore or online. The proceeds go towards providing housing, healthcare, and other essential services. Donating here not only clears your shelves but also contributes to a noble cause.

3. The Strand Bookstore

While The Strand is primarily known for its vast collection of new and used books, they also accept book donations. The Strand has a dedicated section for donated books, which are often sold at discounted prices. This is a great option if you have a mix of popular and niche titles that you believe will find eager readers.

4. Brooklyn Book Bodega

Brooklyn Book Bodega is a unique initiative that aims to increase book ownership among Brooklyn residents, particularly children. They accept donations of new and gently used books, which are then distributed to families in need. This is an excellent choice if you have children’s books or young adult novels that you’d like to pass on to the next generation of readers.

5. Goodwill and Salvation Army

These well-known thrift stores are always in need of book donations. Goodwill and Salvation Army accept a wide range of books, from fiction to non-fiction, and even textbooks. Donated books are sold in their stores, with the proceeds supporting various community programs. This is a convenient option if you have a large number of books to donate and want to support a broader range of charitable activities.

6. Little Free Libraries

Scattered throughout Brooklyn are numerous Little Free Libraries—small, community-run book exchanges where anyone can take a book or leave a book. Donating to a Little Free Library is a grassroots way to share your love of reading with your neighbors. Simply find a Little Free Library near you and drop off your books. It’s a simple yet impactful way to contribute to your community’s literary culture.

7. Brooklyn Book Festival

The Brooklyn Book Festival, held annually, is one of the largest literary events in the borough. During the festival, there are often opportunities to donate books, which are then used in various community programs or sold to support the festival’s initiatives. Keep an eye on the festival’s website for donation details as the event approaches.

8. Local Schools and Community Centers

Many schools and community centers in Brooklyn are in constant need of books for their libraries and educational programs. Donating to these institutions ensures that your books are put to good use, enriching the lives of students and community members. Contact local schools or community centers to inquire about their donation policies and needs.

9. Book Drives and Charity Events

Throughout the year, various organizations in Brooklyn host book drives and charity events where you can donate books. These events often have specific themes or target audiences, such as children’s books for schools or academic texts for universities. Participating in these drives is a great way to ensure your donations are directed towards a specific cause.

10. Online Platforms

In the digital age, online platforms like Freecycle, Craigslist, and Facebook Marketplace offer opportunities to donate books directly to individuals in your community. These platforms allow you to connect with people who are specifically looking for the types of books you have to offer. It’s a modern twist on traditional book donation methods.

FAQs

Q: Can I donate textbooks to Brooklyn Public Library? A: Yes, the Brooklyn Public Library accepts textbooks, but it’s best to check with your local branch for specific guidelines.

Q: Are there any restrictions on the types of books I can donate to Housing Works Bookstore Café? A: Housing Works generally accepts a wide range of books, but they may have restrictions on heavily damaged or outdated materials. It’s always a good idea to contact them beforehand.

Q: How can I find a Little Free Library near me? A: You can use the Little Free Library website or app to locate the nearest Little Free Library in your area.

Q: Can I donate books to Brooklyn Book Bodega if they are not in perfect condition? A: Brooklyn Book Bodega prefers books that are in good, readable condition. If your books are heavily damaged, they may not be accepted.

Q: What should I do if I have a large number of books to donate? A: For large donations, it’s best to contact the organization or institution beforehand to arrange a drop-off or pickup. Many places have specific procedures for handling large quantities of books.

By donating your books in Brooklyn, you’re not only decluttering your space but also contributing to the borough’s vibrant literary culture and supporting various community initiatives. Whether you choose a library, a nonprofit, or a local school, your donations will make a meaningful impact.