We all know that it’s important for your little ones to have access to books. From board books to early readers, many Champaign-Urbana parents find that their children outgrow books almost as fast as they outgrow their jammies!
What to do with those gently used books once your children are done with them? Pass them on, of course!
The following places take donations of gently used children’s books:
Orphan’s Treasure Box: Orphan’s Treasure Box, a 501(c)3 organization that helps support orphan adoptions and orphan care, accepts most books ranging from children’s to Sci-fi, text books to cook books. They go through a sorting process where they decide first which to list online (they sell books on three different websites) and then the rest go into their retail store. They accept book donations everyday while the store is open 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Thursday and 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Friday-Saturday. Books can also be dropped off behind the store in their shed anytime. They are able to provide tax receipts if requested. More information is available here.
Junior League of CU: The JLCU accepts book donations for its Bright Starts program. Contact the Junior League for details.
Local Libraries: Many local libraries take book and/or magazine donations. Check with your local library about their policy before you lug in that box of books!
Champaign Public Library: The Champaign Public Library accepts donations of any gently used books, from board books through adult. They can’t guarantee that the books will go into circulation, but if they don’t use them, the library will give the donated books to their Friendshop book store for sale.
Urbana Free Library: The Urbana Free library takes book donations as time. You can drop off any books at the circulation desk. Have books to donate but can’t make it in? They also pick up books at your home.
Local Schools and Daycares: Local schools also accept donations of gently used (and new!) children’s books. Please check with your school or daycare first.
A few of the Champaign elementary schools have a Book Nook and accepts book donations.
Only accepts New children’s books:
Crisis Nursery: Crisis Nursery only accepts new children’s books.