Books
Books in good condition are best donated, not recycled, per the EPA: schools, libraries, places of faith, and charities regularly take them and a donation keeps the book itself in use rather than pulped. Books not in usable condition can be recycled instead: paperbacks can go in curbside paper recycling as-is, but a hardcover's cover must be removed first, per the EPA.
Curbside recycling?
Varies by location
Per the EPA: paperback books can be recycled as-is in curbside paper recycling. Hardcovers need the cover removed first, since the cardboard/cloth boards and binding glue aren't paper. Actual acceptance still varies by local program, so confirm with yours.
How to prepare it
- If donating: check that the book is clean, complete, and in reasonably good condition first, most donation programs can't resell or reuse damaged books
- If recycling a worn paperback: no extra prep needed, it can go in curbside paper recycling as-is
- If recycling a worn hardcover: remove the cover (cardboard/cloth boards) before putting the pages in curbside paper recycling
Common fees
Not confirmed
Quantity limits
Not confirmed
Residency restrictions
Not confirmed
Appointment required?
Not confirmed
Nearby locations
No locations yet for this item
Our facility coverage is still expanding beyond Los Angeles and Houston. Check the retailer/manufacturer programs above, or your city's official page.
Related items
Frequently asked questions
- Where can I recycle books?
- Books in good condition are best donated, not recycled, per the EPA: schools, libraries, places of faith, and charities regularly take them and a donation keeps the book itself in use rather than pulped. Books not in usable condition can be recycled instead: paperbacks can go in curbside paper recycling as-is, but a hardcover's cover must be removed first, per the EPA.
- Can books go in curbside recycling?
- Per the EPA: paperback books can be recycled as-is in curbside paper recycling. Hardcovers need the cover removed first, since the cardboard/cloth boards and binding glue aren't paper. Actual acceptance still varies by local program, so confirm with yours.
Sources
Programs, hours, fees, eligibility, and accepted materials can change. Confirm details with the facility before traveling.
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