Trent University Library has been immeasurably enriched by gifts and the generosity of donors. Donors have played a notable role in the development of our library collection through financial contributions as well as donations of materials that support the mission of the library.
Monetary Donations
Monetary donations supporting our Library Collections are most welcome. These contributions allow us to enrich and expand our library collections supporting teaching and research at Trent. Online giving is simple and secure. Donations can be made through the Library Acquisitions Trust Fund. Please contact the Trent University External Relations & Development for more information on this fund and other Library Collections donation opportunities.
Gifts-in-Kind (Books & Other Materials)
Trent University Library has suspended acceptance of donations of books and other materials (gifts-in-kind) to the library's physical colletions until further notice. This enables us to focus librarian and library staff time on strategic priorities that directly support current teaching and research needs while managing physical space constraints. For any questions about this suspension, please contact library@trentu.ca.
This suspension does not apply to donations to Archives & Special Collections. Please visit our Giving to the Archives page for more information about donating archival materials.
Alternative Options for Donating Books
If you are looking for ways to donate books and other materials, we suggest the following community options:
Textbook Donations
Peterborough
Donations of used textbooks can be dropped off in the designated bin at the entrance to Bata Library. Once donated, textbooks are either routed to Better World Books (a social enterprise that funds literacy initiatives worldwide) or placed on the Library's Free Shelf on the first floor. The free shelf is accessible to all members of the Trent community who are welcome to take any of the donated items. Occasionally, at the discretion of the Scholarly Resources Librarian, donated textbooks may be added to the Library's collection.
Oshawa
Textbooks for Change is an organization that accepts used textbooks and redistributes them to schools around the world. A drop box is located at Ontario Tech University. Visit their website for details about accepted materials and drop-off locations.
Trent University Library Free Shelves
Both campus libraries have "take a book, leave a book" shelves that are accessible to all members of the Trent community who are welcome to leave donations as well as take any of the donated items:
- Bata Library "Help Yourshelf" is located on the first floor of Bata Library near the Archives
- Durham Library & Learning Centre "Free Book" spinner is located just outside the library doors
Please note that the Trent University Library is not responsible for items left in these areas.
Public Libraries
Both Peterborough Public Library and Oshawa Public Libraries accept donations of used books through their Friends of Library groups: