You’ve turned to the right page if you’re looking to donate books in Gainesville!
Here, we list the best places to donate books in Gator country, sharing the methods of donation, types of books they accept, and hours.
Note: We prioritize organizations that dedicate time and resources to aiding literacy in their local communities.
Child Advocacy Center
Donation Type: Drop off
Location: PO Box 13454 Gainesville, FL 32604
Type of Books Accepted: Gently used children’s and baby books
Website: Child Advocacy Center
How to Donate
The Child Advocacy Center doesn’t have exact hours listed, so you may wish to email ahead to arrange a time or confirm your drop off is okay: info@cacgainesville.org
Why We Love the Child Advocacy Center
They provide a safe haven for kids who’ve experienced abuse or neglect, pairing children with social workers and counselors to give them vital support when they need it most. Reading simple books with someone can always help children with trauma so any donations of children’s or baby books in good condition would be greatly appreciated by the organization.
Check out their (now retired) feline friend Hank, who is a support cat for children who suffer from abuse.
Gainesville Books to Prisoners
Donation Type: Drop off
Location: 433 S. Main St., Gainesville, FL 32601
Hours: First and third Tuesday of the month, 6-7.30pm @ Civic Media Center
Type of Books Accepted: Check their Instagram for “weekly wish lists”
Type of Books Not Accepted: Hardcover books, violent books
Instagram: GNVBooks2Prisoners
How to Donate
Gainesville Books to Prisoners post weekly wishlists about the particular types of books they need that week. This varies depending on the prisoners’ requests.
Why We Love GNV Books to Prisoners
They ship books to all prisoners in Florida, and take active requests from inmates. Historically, prison libraries can be quite bland, so their wishlists often ask for an eclectic mix of books.
This is a really great cause helping prisoners to better themselves through the power of reading!
Friends of the Alachua County Library District
Donation Type: Drop off, Drop off in book bin
Location: 430-B North Main Street, Gainesville, FL 32601
Hours: Mon-Thu 9am-3pm; Fri-Sat 9am-12pm
Type of Books Accepted: Any books in good condition
Website: FOLACLD
How to Donate
Bring your books to the drop off location during opening hours where someone will gladly take them off your hands. Alternatively, they have a 24/7 drop box at this same location.
Why We Love FOLACLD
They host book sales year round, notably their Fall and Spring book sales, with all proceeds going to fund vital library programs. This is a great way to support your local library.
Book Gallery West
Donation Type: Trade/exchange
Location: 4121 NW 16th Blvd, Gainesville, FL 32605
Type of Books Accepted: Books that can be valued
Website: Book Gallery West
How to Donate
If you’re looking to get a little cash or store credit for your books, head to Book Gallery West, a used bookstore who will gladly evaluate your titles! Check their site for opening hours.
Thrift Stores That Accept Donations
- The Humane Society (NW 6th St)
- Haven Hospice (NW 8th Ave)
Quite a list there! We hope this guide has helped you make a choice as to where you’ll donate your books in Gainesville.
I have a new KJV of the new Bible and want to give it to someone or some place where it can be passed on!! I bought another KJV that is what I grew up with!! If all else fails, go with what you know!!