Creative Ways to Rehome Your Excess Books

As book lovers, it’s easy to find ourselves with shelves overflowing! While every book holds memories and meaning, there comes a time when we need to clear space for new stories and adventures. Parting with books can be bittersweet, but rehoming them is a chance to share the joy of reading and give back to your community. 

Here are some creative ways to rehome your excess books!

Sell Your Books

One way to let go of books is to sell them. Local used or second-hand bookstores often accept gently loved books, and some even offer store credit—perfect for funding future book purchases. Another option is selling online through platforms like Facebook Marketplace, PangoBooks, or Poshmark. These websites/apps make it easy to connect your books with fellow book enthusiasts looking for their next read! Not only does selling your books help declutter your space, but it also puts a little extra cash in your pocket for future bookish purchases ;)

Donate to Local Bookstores or Libraries

Donating books is a wonderful way to support your local community! Many used bookstores welcome donations, which helps them offer affordable books to others. Before loading up your boxes of books, check with your bookstore to make sure you drop your books off during their donation hours–many have specific hours set aside each day/week for accepting donations. This will save you the trouble of arriving with heavy boxes of books, only to be turned around and told to come back another time! Alternatively, your local library may accept book donations to expand their collection, or host book sales to raise funds. Both options ensure your books will continue to reach readers in your area!

Find Little Free Libraries

Little Free Libraries are an excellent way to pass on your books while spreading the love of reading. These small, community-run book exchanges allow you to leave a book and/or take a new one. It’s a simple way to ensure your books find a new home where they’ll be appreciated. These libraries often look like bookish mailboxes, and can be found in front of someone’s home, business, or in public shared spaces. They are often independently managed by fellow book lovers, and stocked by people’s own book collections. Little Free Libraries near you can be located with a simple Google search, or by clicking HERE. Or, check community boards online—you might be surprised at how many are nearby!

Organize a Book Swap

If you’re not ready to sell or donate, organizing a book swap is another great way to rehome your unwanted books. Gather friends, family, or members of your book club to trade books. This not only helps you declutter but also gives you the chance to discover new favorites recommended by people you trust. Add snacks and cozy vibes to make it a fun, social event.

Rehoming your books doesn’t mean saying goodbye forever; it means giving someone else the chance to experience the stories that have brought you joy (or the stories that were simply not meant for you)! Passing on the books you’ve cherished is a wonderful way to share the magic of reading with others in your community. And let’s be honest—not every book is meant for everyone. By parting with books that didn’t capture your heart or those you’ve decided you’ll never read, you’re giving them the opportunity to connect with someone who will truly appreciate them!

Whether you choose to sell, donate, or share your books through a swap, you’re creating opportunities for others to fall in love with reading. How do you rehome your books? Share your tips and experiences in the comments below!