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Book Drives for BookSmiles

​Book drives are an integral part of our mission.  Without the support of individuals, groups, schools and businesses, we could not provide the books to the children we serve!

Who can hold a book drive?
ANYONE!  We have had children run their own successful book drives resulting in donations of 1,000 or more books.  Organizations also hold successful book drives for BookSmiles.  And, of course, area schools continue to harvest thousands of children's book each month.  Consider holding a book drive in your neighborhood over the summer!  Sell lemonade and donate the proceeds to BookSmiles!  Lots of ways children can participate in philanthropy!  

What do I need to hold a book drive?
You will need a collection container and a sign.  A plastic storage tote, or several large boxes can do the trick.  BookSmiles can offer the use of one of their signature art bins for high traffic collection sites, if one is available.  We also offer corrugated cardboard bins.  Contact us and let's create a plan together!  

What types of books does BookSmiles accept?
We accept new and gently used children's books.  
  • Ages infant through 6th grade
  • Fiction and Non-fiction (please, no encyclopedia, reference books, or religiously themed books)
  • Donate children's books that you would be proud to give to a child.
  • Please, no old books that smell musty, have been scribbled in, or that have yellowed over time and no torn covers/pages. 

​How long should I hold the book drive?
Most book drives are held for about a month in order to give folks time to learn about the event, then to collect books in their home.  We also have permanent donation stations located at high traffic areas that continue to collect hundreds books each month.  

How do I promote my book drive?
We have created some generic signs that can be printed out and used on your social media pages.  Check them out below!
If you have specific needs or ideas, our program coordinator will work with you and help create marketing materials.  Fill out the form on our Contact Us page to get started!

What do I do once the drive is over?
After your drive has ended, we ask that you pack up the books in cardboard boxes that are not too heavy and deliver them during open hours to the BookSmiles Book Bank located at 1879 Old Cuthbert Road, Cherry Hill, NJ.  For drives that collect over 1,000 books, we may be able to get some of our volunteers to help pick up the books.  Please contact us in advance to arrange this.  
Picture
Aaron collected 1,350 children's books during his month long book drive in January 2020!
  • About Us
    • Our Story
    • Founder
    • Our Team
    • Board of Directors
    • Press/Media
    • Testimonials
    • Blog >
      • Newsletters
  • Register for Books
  • Get Involved
    • Donation Stations
    • Volunteer
    • Start A Drive
  • Donate
    • Become a Partner
    • Tribute Page
    • Birthday Party Fundraiser
    • Amazon Smile
  • Contact