What We Take, and What We Don't
Books and other items Pick-Up Partners take, what they can't, many copies of one title, minimums, and tax deductions.
Pick-Up Partners take almost every kind of book, plus many other kinds of media. Each Partner chooses what they accept, so when you book, you'll see which Partners take the items you have.
Books We Take#
New or old, hardcover or paperback, any topic. That includes children's books, picture books, fiction and non-fiction, college textbooks, religious books, coffee table books, old library books and even encyclopedias. Mixed collections are welcome.
Other Items#
Many Partners also take:
- CDs and DVDs
- Video games
- Vinyl records
- Audio books
Some Partners also take VHS tapes, audio cassettes, board games, puzzles and software. When you book a pick-up, check the items you have. Each Partner's card tells you if they don't take something on your list.
What We Can't Take#
- Magazines and newspapers
- Books with mold, mildew or water damage
- Rain-soaked books, so please cover them if rain is coming
- Loose books that aren't in a box or bag
If an item has heavy staining or damage, please recycle it instead.
Many Copies of the Same Book#
Classroom sets, author stock or several copies of one title are welcome, but we ask for photos first. When you book, check I have multiple copies of the same title and add a photo of the front and back cover (with the barcode) of each title. That way your Partner knows they have room to find those books a home.
How Many Books?#
There's no upper limit. For a very large collection, like a whole library, add a note when you book so your Partner can plan for it.
There is a lower limit. The Network minimum for a scheduled pick-up is 25 books, and some Partners set a higher minimum of their own. Smaller pick-ups can still go out as an Out-of-Area request, which a Partner can take when they're nearby. See Small pick-ups.
Tax Deductions#
Give My Books Network and its Pick-Up Partners are family businesses, not 501(c)(3) nonprofits, so we can't give tax deduction forms. If you need one, please give your books to a registered nonprofit instead.
What Happens to Your Books#
Your Partner resells what they can, at bookstores, flea markets, community book sales and online. That's how they cover the cost of your free pick-up. Many Partners also give books to schools, libraries and community groups through Give ME Books. Recycling is always a last resort.