Toronto’s Comprehensive Guide to Donating Your Old Books

Books are more than just bundles of pages filled with words; they are vessels of knowledge, gateways to far-off worlds, and companions in personal growth. From classic literature to modern-day manuscripts, books serve as invaluable tools for learning, reflection, and entertainment. However, as time progresses, personal libraries often grow beyond our needs. Old volumes sit untouched, gathering dust on our shelves. But instead of discarding these treasures, there lies an opportunity to pass them forward. Donating old books not only extends their lifecycle but ensures that their profound value is shared with others. In a city like Toronto, where knowledge and culture thrive side by side, the act of book donation can make a significant impact on individuals and the broader community.

25 Places to Donate Your Old Books in Toronto

Toronto, a city bursting with culture and knowledge, offers numerous avenues for residents to pass on their beloved books, ensuring they find a new home and continue to spread knowledge. Whether you’re looking to support local libraries, contribute to thrift stores, or help community centers, Toronto provides a wide array of establishments willing to accept your cherished reads. While there are numerous places across the city to donate, we’ve curated a list of 25 prominent destinations where your contributions will be greatly valued and make a genuine difference.

• Toronto Public Library – While they don’t always accept all book donations, they do have occasional donation drives.
• Value Village – A thrift store chain that accepts used books among other items.
• The Children’s Book Bank – Specifically accepts children’s books.
• Salvation Army Thrift Store – Accepts book donations for resale to support their charitable activities.
• Textbooks for Change – A social enterprise that accepts used textbooks to support literacy initiatives.
• Goodwill Toronto – A nonprofit organization that accepts book donations.
• Encore Thrift Store – Operated by the Canadian Opera Volunteer Committee.
• BMV Books – A popular chain in Toronto that buys and sells used books.
• Bibles for Missions Thrift Store – Accepts all kinds of books to raise funds for Bible placements.
• Friends of Toronto Public Library, South Chapter – A group that supports the library and its community outreach through the sale of donated books.
• Yonge Street Mission’s Double Take – A thrift store that accepts book donations.
• Better World Books – While based in the U.S., they have drop boxes in Toronto and work towards promoting literacy.
• Habitat for Humanity Restore – Accepts book donations among other household items.
• Scott Mission – A Christian ministry accepting a variety of donations including books.
• Palabra Viva – Accepts Spanish language books specifically.
• St. Felix Centre – A community center that accepts book donations for their patrons.
• Furniture Bank – While their primary focus is on furniture, they also accept book donations.
• Lifeline Syria – Sometimes they accept book donations, especially if they’re for educational purposes or language learning.
• Little Free Library – There are numerous “Little Free Library” boxes across Toronto. These are small, community-run bookshelves where one can leave a book for someone else to pick up.
• Local schools and daycares – While not a specific location, many educational institutions welcome book donations for their classrooms and libraries.

Toronto Public Library

The Toronto Public Library (TPL) stands as one of the world’s busiest urban public library systems, serving over 2.8 million residents with its vast collection. It plays a vital role in Toronto’s educational and cultural framework, making it a prime location to donate books and support the continuous sharing of knowledge.

Donation Guidelines:

• TPL welcomes the donation of books, CDs, and DVDs in good condition.
• They do not accept materials that are damaged, outdated, or in languages other than English and French unless they are specifically requested.
• It’s advised to contact your local branch beforehand to ensure they’re accepting donations at that time.

Value Village

Value Village is a for-profit, global thrift retailer offering gently used clothing, accessories, and household goods. Its stores in Toronto also boast a considerable section dedicated to books, making it a popular destination for readers scouting for a good deal.

Donation Guidelines:

• Books should be in sellable condition, free of mold, mildew, and excessive wear.
• While they accept a broad range of genres, it’s advisable to avoid donating outdated textbooks or encyclopedias as they might not be in demand.
• Donations can be dropped off directly at their storefronts, typically in designated donation drop-off areas.

The Children’s Book Bank

The Children’s Book Bank provides free books and literacy support to children in low-income neighborhoods across Toronto. Founded with the core belief that every child should have their own collection of books, this organization aims to foster early literacy and the love of reading.

Donation Guidelines:

• Donations should be new or gently-used children’s books suitable for ages 12 and under.
• The organization prefers books that reflect diverse experiences and cultures.
• Books that are outdated, damaged, or written in languages other than English might not be accepted.

Location: The Children’s Book Bank’s primary location is in Toronto’s Regent Park area, but they often have various book collection campaigns throughout the city. For specifics on the address and drop-off details, it’s recommended to visit their official website.

Salvation Army Thrift Store

The Salvation Army Thrift Store is a national, charitable organization that provides support to thousands of Canadians each year. Through its thrift stores, the Salvation Army generates funds to support a wide range of its programs. The stores themselves also play a pivotal role in recycling and reducing waste.

Donation Guidelines:

• They accept a broad range of book genres in good condition.
• Damaged, moldy, or excessively worn books are generally not accepted.
• While there’s no strict list of non-acceptable items, very outdated textbooks or encyclopedias might not be preferred.

Textbooks for Change

Textbooks for Change is a social enterprise dedicated to providing affordable and accessible educational materials to students. They primarily donate to post-secondary institutions in East Africa and support student clubs and microloans for entrepreneurs in developing countries.

Donation Guidelines:

• They mainly accept post-secondary textbooks that are less than 15 years old.
• The textbooks should be in decent condition with no missing pages or excessive annotations.
• Other academic resources and materials might also be considered.

Goodwill Toronto

Goodwill Toronto, a part of Goodwill Industries International, is a non-profit organization focused on providing employment opportunities and skills development for people facing barriers to employment. Through its stores, Goodwill sells donated items, including books, generating funds to support its mission.

Donation Guidelines:

• They accept books of various genres in good condition.
• Items that are damaged, moldy, or excessively worn are generally not accepted.
• It’s advisable to avoid donating very outdated materials, such as old textbooks or encyclopedias.

Encore Thrift Store

Encore Thrift Store is a community-based thrift shop that operates in the Greater Toronto Area. It aims to provide affordable goods to the local community while generating funds for various charitable endeavors.

Donation Guidelines:

• They accept a wide range of gently used items, including books.
• Books should be in good, sellable condition without excessive wear or damage.
• As with many thrift stores, overly outdated materials might be less in demand.

BMV Books

BMV Books is a well-known chain of independent bookstores in Toronto. Specializing in buying and selling used books, movies, and music, BMV has been a beloved spot for Toronto’s bibliophiles for years.

Donation Guidelines:

• While BMV primarily purchases books, they might consider donations, especially if they’re of significant value or interest.
• Items should be in good condition, free of damage and excessive wear.
• Popular, current, and classic titles are often in higher demand.

Location: BMV Books has multiple locations across Toronto, with its most notable store on Bloor Street. 

Bibles for Missions Thrift Store

Bibles for Missions Thrift Store is a charitable establishment that runs thrift stores to generate funds for Bible distribution and Christian discipleship programs globally. They are dedicated to supporting missions that aim to spread the Gospel.

Donation Guidelines:

• They accept a wide range of gently-used items, including books, with a particular interest in Christian literature.
• Books should be in good condition with no excessive wear, damage, or annotations.
• Secular books are accepted, but they should be family-friendly.

Friends of Toronto Public Library, South Chapter

Friends of Toronto Public Library, South Chapter, is an organization dedicated to supporting the Toronto Public Library system. They often run book sales and other fundraising activities to fund library programs and services that aren’t covered by regular budgets.

Donation Guidelines:

• They generally accept gently-used books of all genres, including fiction, non-fiction, and children’s books.
• Books should be in good, sellable condition without significant wear or damage.
• Outdated materials, such as old textbooks or magazines, might be less in demand.

Yonge Street Mission’s Double Take

Double Take is Yonge Street Mission’s thrift store, which serves the dual purpose of providing affordable goods to the community and generating revenue to support the mission’s various outreach programs aimed at Toronto’s at-risk populations.

Donation Guidelines:

• They accept a variety of items, including books in good condition.
• Damaged or excessively worn books may not be accepted.
• They prefer popular titles and genres that are in demand.

Location: Double Take is located in downtown Toronto. 

Better World Books

Better World Books is a socially conscious online bookseller that seeks to promote literacy globally. For every book sold, they donate a book to someone in need. Their business model revolves around using the power of commerce to create positive social and environmental change.

Donation Guidelines:

• They accept books across a range of genres, both fiction and non-fiction.
• Books should be in readable condition without missing pages or excessive damage.
• They prefer books that have a higher resale value, such as textbooks and popular novels.

Location: While Better World Books primarily operates online, they have several drop-box locations where donors can leave their books. 

Habitat for Humanity ReStore

Habitat for Humanity ReStore is a retail establishment that sells new and gently-used items, with all proceeds going to support Habitat for Humanity’s mission of building homes for families in need. They have multiple locations throughout Toronto and the surrounding regions.

Donation Guidelines:

• They accept a variety of gently-used items, including books.
• Books should be in good, sellable condition.
• They prefer home improvement books, DIY guides, and similar genres, although other types are also welcome.

Once you’ve passed on the joy of your old books to new readers through Toronto’s donation centers, why not find a cozy corner in one of the city’s top study cafes to enjoy your next book in peace?

Scott Mission

Scott Mission is a Christian, non-denominational urban mission serving the people of Toronto. They offer a range of services, from hot meals to shelter and children’s camps, all aimed at assisting Toronto’s less fortunate populations.

Donation Guidelines:

• They accept a wide variety of donations, including books that can be used in their community programs or sold to generate funds.
• Books should be in decent condition, free from significant wear or damage.
• Inspirational, motivational, and self-help books are particularly appreciated, but they also accept other genres.

Palabra Viva

Palabra Viva (or “Living Word” in Spanish) is a Christian-based community initiative that focuses on spreading religious teachings and fostering community bonds. Through the distribution of religious literature and books, Palabra Viva aids in spiritual growth and enlightenment within the community.

Donation Guidelines:

• They primarily accept religious and spiritual books in good condition.
• Any books that delve into Christian teachings, theology, and spiritual growth are appreciated.
• Books should be free from significant damages, annotations, or markings.

St. Felix Centre

St. Felix Centre is a non-profit organization serving Toronto’s vulnerable populations. They provide essential services like food, shelter, and wellness programs, and offer a safe and welcoming environment to all who seek assistance.

Donation Guidelines:

• They accept a variety of items, including books, to enhance their community programs.
• Donated books should be in decent, readable condition.
• Inspirational, self-help, educational, and recreational reading materials are particularly welcome.

Furniture Bank

Extend your generosity to include furniture by checking out the city’s top places to donate furniture, helping those in need while refreshing your space. Furniture Bank is a socially-driven organization in Toronto that seeks to provide furniture and household items to individuals and families transitioning out of homelessness or displacement. While their primary focus is on furniture, they also accept other household essentials to create a comfortable living environment for their clients.

Donation Guidelines:

• While Furniture Bank mainly accepts furniture, they also take book donations, especially if they come as part of a larger household donation.
• Books in good condition, without significant damage or wear, are preferred.
• Children’s books, cookbooks, and general fiction are especially appreciated.

Lifeline Syria

Lifeline Syria is an initiative that emerged in response to the Syrian refugee crisis. Established in Toronto, the organization works diligently to sponsor, welcome, and support Syrian refugees as they transition into Canadian communities. While their primary focus is on resettlement and integration, they occasionally require resources like books to support educational and community-building programs.

Donation Guidelines:

• Lifeline Syria may accept educational books, language-learning materials, children’s books, and other materials to support the integration process.
• All books should be in good condition, free of significant damage, markings, or annotations.
• Due to varying needs, potential donors are encouraged to contact the organization directly to ensure current needs align with the proposed donation.

Little Free Library

The Little Free Library movement is a global initiative with the straightforward aim of promoting the love of reading. These small, box-like structures are erected in communities and serve as free book exchange points. Anyone can take a book or leave a book, fostering a sense of community sharing and literacy.

Donation Guidelines:

• Books of all genres and for all ages are typically accepted.
• Ensure books are in reasonably good condition, without major wear or damage.
• Due to limited space in most Little Free Libraries, consider donating only a few books at a time.

Local schools and daycares

Local schools and daycares in Toronto often have libraries or reading corners to foster a love for reading and literacy among children. Donating books to these institutions can enrich their collection and provide diverse reading materials for young minds. Once you’ve cleared out your bookshelves by donating to Toronto’s book donation spots, consider the educational journey ahead by familiarizing yourself with the top high schools in Toronto, ensuring your young scholars are set for success.

Donation Guidelines:

• Focus on donating age-appropriate books, from picture books for toddlers to young adult novels for older students.
• Educational materials, activity books, and storybooks are generally preferred.
• Books should be in good condition, without significant wear, tear, or markings.

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Things to Consider Before Donating

When looking to donate books, ensuring that they can truly be of use and value to others is essential. Here are some key aspects to consider:

• It’s vital to ensure that the books you’re donating are in good condition. Tattered covers, missing pages, or significant annotations might reduce the book’s usability for the next reader.
• Make sure the books are clean and free from mold or mildew. A quick wipe down can make a difference, and in the case of older books, a gentle cleaning can revitalize them.
• Many organizations have specific requirements or needs, so it’s beneficial to check beforehand. For instance, a children’s home might only be interested in children’s books, while educational institutions might require academic materials.
• Some places might have specific drop-off times or designated areas. Always adhere to these instructions to ensure the process is smooth for both you and the receiving organization.

Other Ways to Recycle or Repurpose Old Books

Not all books might be suitable for donation, but that doesn’t mean they can’t be given a new purpose. Here are some creative ideas:

Creating DIY crafts:

• Book Art: Fold pages in specific patterns to create visual art directly from the book’s pages. These can make for unique shelf displays.
• Journals: Older books can be repurposed into journals by replacing the inner pages with blank ones.
• Decorative Items: With a bit of craftiness, books can become beautiful centerpieces, wall hangings, or even lamp bases.

Hosting book swaps:

• Community Gathering: Organize a local book swap event. It’s a great way for community members to exchange books they’ve finished reading and get new ones in return. You might be looking for new ways to engage with your community. Check out our tips on proven ways to make friends in Toronto and start building lasting relationships.
• Online Platforms: Use social media to create virtual book swap groups. This way, people from different areas can participate and exchange books through mail.
• Themed Swaps: Make the book swap more interesting by having themes. For instance, one month could be dedicated to mystery novels, while another could focus on historical fiction.

Benefits of Donating Books

Helping the Community: When you donate your old books, you’re directly contributing to the enrichment of your community. Books make their way into schools, local libraries, shelters, and community centers, providing countless individuals access to education and leisurely reading. Especially for those who can’t afford to buy books regularly, your contribution can be a source of enlightenment and joy.

Environmental Benefits: In an age of heightened environmental awareness, donating books is a sustainable choice. Instead of letting old books end up in landfills, donating them gives them a new life. This act reduces waste and conserves the resources and energy that would otherwise be spent on the production of new books.

Personal Decluttering: On a personal level, clearing out unused books can create a more organized living space. It allows you to make room for new reads and eliminates the overwhelming feeling that can come from clutter. Additionally, knowing that your books are benefiting others rather than taking up space can bring a sense of fulfillment and peace. Once you’ve donated your old books, consider exploring the best bookstores in Toronto to fill the newly created space on your bookshelves with stories that inspire and captivate.

Key Takeaways

• There are several establishments, from “Lifeline Syria” to “Local schools and daycares”, that accept book donations, each serving a unique purpose and demographic.
• Before donating, it’s crucial to ensure that the books are in good, usable condition and are free from significant wear and tear.
• It’s vital to read and adhere to their donation guidelines to ensure the books meet their needs.
• Beyond donation, old books can be creatively repurposed into crafts or used in community book swaps, providing them a renewed purpose.
• Hosting or participating in book swaps, either in-person or online, fosters a sense of community among book lovers.
• Donating, recycling, or repurposing books is an environmentally-friendly choice, helping reduce waste and promote sustainability.
• Donating books, especially to organizations supporting underserved communities, can be a powerful tool for education and change.

FAQs

1. Are there specific conditions the books should be in for donation?
   Yes, most places prefer books in good condition, without torn pages or significant damage.

2. What do organizations do with the books they receive? 
   Organizations either redistribute them to those in need, sell them to raise funds, or use them for educational purposes.

3. Can I donate textbooks? 
   Yes, “Textbooks for Change” specializes in this, but other places might accept them too.

4. Are there any places that accept foreign language books? 
   “Palabra Viva” specializes in Spanish literature, but other places might accept foreign language books too.

5. How do I start my own “Little Free Library”?
   “Little Free Library” has guidelines on setting up your own community book exchange point.

6. Can I donate children’s books?
   Certainly! “The Children’s Book Bank” specializes in children’s books, and many other places accept them too.