Hi everyone,

I have some ARC copies of books that nobody wanted on here. Can I donate them to my local library? Or can I leave them in the laundromat for others to take? Our laundry has a spot for books and magazines that people leave . I know I can't sell them but I feel bad throwing them in the trash. These are recent books by the way. Thanks for your help!

Charity, probably best to ask those venues if they want them.

Check to find out if your local library sells used books. Even if the library can't use the ARC books as lenders, they could probably put them out for sale with other used donations they get. I've seen some libraries that have shelf or a table where a few used books are always for sale. Whereas my library does a massive used booksale twice a year.

Thanks! I will check on Monday. Went up to ask and they were closed already for today. I have given her books before but not ARC copies. Thank you!

Yes, if your library accepts ARC's, you may donate them...or trade at the UBS, donate, or even sell if you wish.  The "Not for Resale" notation applies only to actual retail stores and individuals with written agreements with the publisher.  Unless you are a retail sales outlet or a book reviewer with a written contract with the publisher, that notation does not apply to you.

I donate some of my books that don't sell or get traded to my local assisted living place.  They have a small library for their residents there and they love romances and mystery/thrillers.  Might check the one in your area.

I'd just donate them to the library and let them figure out if they wanted them or not.  If they don't, they can always sell them at their FoL sales.

NO, you library cannot SELL ARC's because most have signed forms saying they will not sell any that are given to them, we cannot even put them in our collection. Library that sell these books can get in trouble, if they signed up for any ARC programs at any time in the past. I know because I actually read the website where we get the ARCs from.

Yes, leave them at the laundromat or give them to a local hospital or care facility.

Some libraries do take ARCs for the FOL sales.  Mine has a "free" section where they give them away.  You'll just have to check with your library about their policies. 

I've haven't read too many ARCs but I got this one that I read and absolutely hated the book. I felt cheated and I got the book for free! I didn't even want the book on my bookshelf, I hated it that much. So I took it to my local library and dropped it in the book return chute outside. I know you're not supposed to but I really didn't want that damn book!

Why not donate the books to Goodwill or charity thrift stores?  My town has multiple outlets like this that support battered woman, autistic children, animal shelters and churches.  They are always more than happy to get any donations whether it's one book or a whole box - they don't care if they are in perfect condition, or ARCs.  It helps them keep them stocked and those of us that frequent them are always thrilled to see new books to look through. 

<<I didn't even want the book on my bookshelf, I hated it that much. So I took it to my local library and dropped it in the book return chute outside. I know you're not supposed to but I really didn't want that damn book!>>

Speaking as a librarian, please don't do this.  Some library staffer is now wracking their brain trying to figure out who the book might belong to, and how they can contact them to let them know they accidentally dropped off their own book with their library books.  If you need to "abandon" a book, please use BookCrossing or a donation box or some other method.  Thanks ;-)