How to recycle books

According to Recycle Right WA, ‘Unwanted books should be donated to charity or resold second-hand. If unable to be donated, unwanted books should be placed in your general waste bin.’ Here are some easy ways to keep them out of landfill.

Download instead

One of the easiest ways to keep books out of landfill is to download them instead. You can do this on an e-reader device or choose one of many apps to use on your chosen device. And as a bonus, the books won't take up precious space in your home. 

Use your local library

This is a great way to save money and space by borrowing from your local library. Whether you prefer to hold a book in your hands or read electronically, your library can provide great options for both - and the best part of all? It's all free!

Some libraries also accept donations of good quality books. You can contribute fiction and nonfiction books, CDs, DVDs, audiobooks, travel guides (up to two years old), and even certain textbooks and finance books (also up to two years old). Before donating, please check that your items are eligible for donation. Contact your most convenient library to discuss your donations. 

Street library

Check out your local Street Library. There are more and more popping up in local streets and shopping centres where you leave a book and take a book. This creates a constant rotation of books for everyone to enjoy.

Charity Shops

Donate them: charity shops will always welcome books in good condition to be resold in their shops

Buy them: Shop at charity shops instead of buying new - and you can always donate it back to the charity shop once you have finished reading it! 

'Free Books' 

Put a box of books you no longer want onto your verge or driveway with a sign inviting passers-by to help themselves. 

Swap with friends

Start a book swap group with friends and family. Make sure everyone buys a different book and share them around. You'll get to enjoy a wide range of books (and maybe even something you may not have chosen yourself) at less cost.

Buy Nothing groups

Offer your unwanted books on your local Buy Nothing Facebook page. Even if you have some that aren't in great condition, someone may have a use for them - such as for art projects, decorations or even wrapping paper!

Sell them

Contact your local secondhand book store and see if they are interested in buying your unwanted books.