At this time, the Templeman Library is pausing the acceptance of donations of printed materials. While we greatly appreciate the generosity of our community, there are a few important reasons behind this decision that we’d like to share.
Space Constraints and Hidden Costs
Unfortunately, there are many hidden costs associated with accepting donations and staff on campus are working hard to acquire material which meets the current educational and research priorities of the University. From sorting to cataloguing and maintaining physical storage, the resources required to manage donations can be better utilised in ways that directly support our mission and serve the needs of the university.
To ensure that our collection remains focused and aligned with the current needs of our academic community, we are concentrating on developing resources that are relevant to teaching and research priorities at the university. Our Collection Development Policy outlines the criteria we use to guide these efforts, ensuring that our library collections support the academic goals of the institution.
Alternative Donation Options
For those still wishing to donate printed materials, there are a number of organizations that would be grateful for your contributions, and that directly benefit communities in need:
- Books2Africa: This Canterbury-based charity accepts books to send to schools and colleges across Africa. Your donations can make a direct impact on the education of young people in these regions. Visit their website here to learn more.
- Anybook: A UK-based online marketplace for second-hand books. They accept books in a range of conditions and work to find new homes for them. Find out more on their website here.
- Oxfam Bookshops: Oxfam’s bookshops offer a place for your donations to support both local communities and global causes. The proceeds from the sales help fund Oxfam’s vital work around the world. Find your nearest shop and donate here.
Students unwanted books
If you have unwanted books and textbooks you could consider the following ways of recycling;
- Library Bookswap events. We regularly run bookswap events for staff and students at Kent and accept good condition, used books. You can deposit these in our bookswap bins located in the Library Welcome Hall or bring along to one of our events to swap for another books!
- Oxfam Bookshops (https://www.oxfam.org.uk/shops/)
Significant donations
Donations of over 500 items or rare and valuable material should be directed to our Special Collections and Archives team via email specialcollections@kent ac.uk
These will be assessed and considered prior to acceptance and in accordance with our Collections Management and Donations Policy.
We are grateful for your understanding and support as we continue to build and develop a library collection that best serves the needs of our university community. Thank you for your continued commitment to education and knowledge sharing.
This arrangement is temporary, and we will be reviewing this 31 August 2025.