Donate Used Books

All donated items collected are sold online through Better World Books. Proceeds support the Friends and Foundation of Howard County Library System. Learn more about the Friends and Foundation of Howard County Library System, and become a member.

How to donate

Please drop donations in the green Better World Books donation drop-off boxes in Library branch parking lots.
Do not bring materials to Library branches or leave them by the front doors or book drops.

Material Guidelines

Learn more about what you can donate at Better World Books Material Guidelines

By following these guidelines, you help us reduce our carbon footprint while minimizing transportation, warehousing, and processing costs. As a result, we are committed to making the process as simple as possible while striving to offer our free service to as many libraries as possible.

Condition Requirements

Books must be free of mildew, mold/mould, excessive dust and dirt. In addition, books cannot have water damage, nor should they exhibit excessive spine damage, have missing pages or missing covers. Please leave any library treatments intact. No part of the book’s pages should be removed with scissors or razor blades.

How to donate

Condition Requirements

Thank you for supporting Howard County Library System.