Bookworms on the Move: What Happens to Your Library When You Relocate?

The Bookworm’s Dilemma: Finding New Homes for Your Pre-Loved Reads

For avid readers, books aren’t just objects; they’re portals to other worlds, companions on life’s journey, and treasures to be cherished. But what happens when these cherished objects begin to pile up, threatening to consume your living space? The dreaded question arises: what to do with all those books?

The rise of e-readers and digital libraries has undoubtedly impacted the physical book market, making it harder to find buyers or recipients for your pre-loved reads. But fear not, fellow bibliophiles! While the landscape has shifted, there are still plenty of avenues to ensure your books find new homes and continue their journeys in the hands of eager readers.

Selling Books Online: The Pros and Cons

The most obvious route for many is selling books online. Amazon, the e-commerce giant, is a familiar name, but navigating its platform as an individual seller can be tricky and potentially discouraging. To sell on Amazon as an individual seller, you’re faced with various fees: a per-book listing fee (currently $0.99), a referral fee (15% of the selling price), and a closing fee ($1.80 per item). These fees, coupled with the intricacies of creating a seller’s account, can make the process feel more like a chore than a profitable venture, especially for smaller collections.

Fortunately, some alternative platforms exist. Powell’s, a renowned independent bookstore, offers a straightforward option. Enter the book’s ISBN and condition, and they’ll provide a quote. You then mail the books to them and receive payment via PayPal. However, prepare for disappointment, as the quotes can be surprisingly low. For a like-new hard copy of a well-known novel, the offer might be as little as $1.67.

AbeBooks, another popular online bookstore, primarily caters to professional sellers, with monthly fees starting at $25. You’ll need to weigh the potential profit against these recurring costs.

Used Bookstores: A Touch of Nostalgia

For a more personal touch, consider your local used bookstores. Though their prevalence may have dwindled in some areas, they can be a valuable resource for both sellers and buyers. Some bookstores offer cash or store credit for used books, while others simply accept donations to add to their collection.

Uncle Hugo’s Science Fiction Bookstore and Uncle Edgar’s Mystery Bookstore, both located in Minneapolis, have thrived by specializing in genre literature, catering to enthusiastic collectors. Paperback Exchange, also in Minneapolis, offers trade credit for your books, allowing you to use the proceeds towards purchasing new or used books at a discounted rate.

In New York City, the iconic Strand bookstore welcomes donations up to 40 books, offering cash or store credit. The Housing Works Bookstore Cafe, a unique bookstore supporting people with HIV/AIDS, accepts used books and clothing. And for a quirky exchange, Sweet Pickle Books offers jars of homemade pickles for your in-person book donations.

Half Price Books boasts a vast network of stores throughout the US. They provide a convenient option to check the value of your books and potentially sell them for a quick profit.

Perhaps the most charming option is The Traveler Restaurant in Connecticut. They offer free books with each meal and gratefully accept donations, creating a perfect blend of hospitality and literary exchange.

Libraries: A Timeless Tradition

Libraries have long been a haven for bookworms and a go-to destination for disposing unwanted books. Many libraries still accept donations, adding them to their collections, selling them to raise funds, or distributing them freely.

However, the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted some library practices, so it’s essential to check their websites or call ahead to confirm their current policies on accepting book donations.

Little Free Library: Cultivating Community

For the more hands-on book lover, Little Free Library provides an opportunity to establish a unique community resource. This global non-profit encourages individuals to build their own mini-libraries, often resembling charming boxes or repurposed structures, where people can freely "take a book, leave a book."

The Little Free Library website offers guidance for starting your own program, finding existing libraries in your neighborhood, and even features a mobile app for easier navigation. You can choose to build or purchase one of their official library structures, or get creative and design a personalized one that reflects your personal style.

Charities: Giving Back and Making a Difference

Numerous charities welcome book donations, offering a fulfilling way to give back to those in need. Goodwill and The Salvation Army, along with other thrift stores, may accept books depending on their local policies and inventory needs. Always check with your local branch for specific guidelines.

Organizations like Better World Books provide a convenient option. They have drop boxes in various locations across the US and use book proceeds to fund literacy projects and support various non-profits.

Books Through Bars, based in Philadelphia, sends free books to incarcerated individuals, providing access to literature and fostering a love of learning. Operation Paperback focuses on sending books to US troops overseas, their families, and veterans at home, providing a vital connection to home and a source of comfort.

The American Library Association offers a comprehensive list of organizations accepting book donations. Local Book Donations is another helpful website that provides local resources for donating books, making it easy to find the perfect recipient for your books within your community.

Additionally, consider donating books to local homeless shelters or nursing homes. Individuals in these facilities may lack access to electronic devices or prefer a tactile reading experience, and your books could offer them hours of enjoyment and companionship.

Last Resort: Recycling and Sustainability

If all else fails, recycling offers a sustainable way to ensure your books don’t end up in landfills. While the thought of pulping a beloved book may feel counterintuitive, it’s certainly better than simply discarding it.

Before tossing books in your paper recycling bin, check your local recycling center’s guidelines. Paperback books generally meet the criteria for paper recycling. However, hardcover books often have non-paper covers, rendering them non-recyclable. In these cases, you’ll need to carefully separate the pages from the covers for proper disposal.

Earth911 offers extensive information on recycling books and magazines, while your local recycling center can provide personalized guidance on their policies.

A New Chapter: Creating Space for More Reads

By exploring these diverse options, you can ensure your used books find new homes and inspire new readers. Whether you’re earning a little extra cash, supporting literacy efforts, or simply making room for a fresh stack of books, you’re not only clearing up space on your bookshelf but also contributing to a shared love of reading.

So, don’t let your books gather dust on the shelf. Embrace the opportunity to share their stories and open new adventures for others!

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