Gifts Policy
Donations of Books to the Library
The library is subject to space and staff limitations that affect our ability to accept donations. We may decline offers, including those which are not within the scope of our collections, that duplicate existing collections, or donations that require extensive conservation.
We do not accept unsolicited gifts. Please do not drop-off or send books or other materials without consulting us.
All donations are accepted with the understanding that items may be withdrawn, sent to other libraries in need, or sold, providing revenue for the acquisition of new library materials.
If an appraisal is required for income tax purposes, arrangements for and costs associated with the appraisal are the sole responsibility of the donor. As a matter of policy and IRS regulations, the library, as an interested party, does not appraise gifts. Donors are encouraged to discuss their donations and appraisals with their attorneys or tax advisors.
Acknowledgement and Receipt
The Library will acknowledge gifts with a letter of receipt, upon request. However, while the receipt will include the number of items donated it will not include an itemized inventory.
Alternative Destinations for Books
If the Middlebury Libraries decline your gift, here are some suggestions for selling or donating your materials:
- Your local public library
- Local used books stores
- H.O.P.E. (Helping Overcome Poverty’s Effects), a not-for-profit located in Middlebury, Vermont.
- Better World Books
For additional ideas, visit the American Library Association’s fact sheet on donating books to needy libraries
Gifts of Financial Support
Give an online donation to the Middlebury Libraries here.
Contact
Rebekah Irwin
Director and curator of Special Collections
(802) 443-3028
rirwin@middlebury.edu