Gift Acceptance Policy
The OSU Libraries is responding to a changed academic environment in which library spaces are repurposed to support individual and group study and learning, and library collections are online and, thus, available to students, faculty and staff when they need them, regardless of their location.
The OSU Libraries continues to accept donations of books, serials, and other media. Materials not added are sold through an open bid process through OSU Surplus and proceeds are used to enhance library collections.
Upon request of the donor, we will provide a letter of acknowledgement, but we cannot provide appraisals for tax purposes. For more information, please see Why We Can't be Appraisers.
Books
Of most interest to the OSU Libraries are unique, hard-bound books or high-quality paperbacks that support current OSU curriculum and research interests.
Generally, we do not add:
- Duplicates of books already in our collection
- Textbooks
- Mass-market paperbacks
- Self-published books unless of local interest
- Books in poor condition or that include highlighting, underlining, or marginal notes
- Off-prints of journal articles or book chapters
Serials
Of most interest to the OSU Libraries are unique serials that support OSU's Signature Areas of Distinction as identified in the University Strategic Plan.
Generally, we do not add:
- Duplicate titles or issues
- Isolated issues to fill in gaps or serial runs of less than 5 years
Media
Of most interest to the Libraries are media in current formats (e.g., DVDs, compact discs) of artistic, literary, or academic interest. Maps and 3-dimensional objects may also be added.
Monetary Gifts
Donors interested in making a monetary gift to the OSU Libraries will find more information on our Giving to OSU Libraries page.
Sending and Receiving Gifts
Using Campus Mail
On-campus faculty can send materials through mailing services: parcels. On the form, include the following in the destination comments field:
- The number of boxes;
- The boxes are heavy;
- Destination is Valley Library Gifts Department
Each box should be labeled Valley Library Gifts Department and placed in their building's mailing room.
Gifts Brought to the Library
Donors should contact Debbie Campbell (541-737-7314) or a subject librarian before bringing materials to the library. Reference desk staff or subject librarians may accept gifts brought to the library although deliveries (particularly of more than 10 items) should be prearranged.
Picking Up Gifts
We are not able to pick up gifts. The subject librarian or Head of Collections and Resource Sharing may make an exception depending on the circumstances. This is at the subject librarians' discretion.
