Raising Readers in Story County

Donating Books

Our innovative programs distribute new and gently used books to children across Story County.

What Books Do We Accept?

Raising Readers in Story County accepts new or gently used books for children birth through Middle School.

Examples of books we take:

  • Board - even with a chew mark or two

  • Picture - hardback or paperback

  • Beginner Readers

  • Early Chapter/Chapter

  • Graphic Novels

What Books Do We NOT Accept?

  • Annuals/Dated Editions more than 3 years old (ie: Guinness Books of Records 2019 edition)

  • Textbooks and Workbooks

  • Curriculum Materials

  • Cookbooks *unless specifically a child's cookbook*

  • Magazines and Newspapers

  • Religious Materials 

What Do We Do with Books Donated to Us?

New books: New books are distributed to children and their caregivers through programs and events and from our Open Hours opportunities at Raising Readers in Story County’s office.

Gently used books: Almost new books are primarily distributed through our Community Bookshelves program which are located in food pantries, medical clinics, offices, and laundromats across Story County. Children are welcome to take these books home after previewing them in those spaces.

Less gently used books: Our most “loved” books go into our Little Free Libraries which can be found in every community in Story County. In 2023, over 8,000 books were shared with our residents through Little Free Libraries!

Host a Book Drive Party!

  • Plan a Raising Readers Book Drive Party for your book club, service group, office, 4H, Camp Fire, Boy Scouts, elementary classroom, sorority or fraternity holiday party.

  • Request books, one for you and one for Raising Readers, at your baby shower or child's birthday party. 

  • Invite guests to bring a children's book or contribution to be donated to Raising Readers.

  • Books can be dropped off at our office at the North Grand Mall location. Call 515-520-8686 for hours!

  • Take a picture of your book drive with your group and email photos to laurageake@raising-readers.org.

Ames Middle School’s Builders Club donated books to be added to the Free Little Library that THEY built!
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