Donating Materials to the Library
The UCSF Library appreciates donations of materials that enrich the existing collection and support the instructional and research mission of the university.
Guidelines
Due to the increasing availability of electronic resources as well as to limited staff and resources, the Library has implemented these policies for accepting donations:
- The Library adds only those titles it deems appropriate to the collection.
- The Library cannot provide an appraisal of the value of a donation.
- The Library does not have a pick-up service for donation materials.
- Only gifts that are accepted by the Collection Development Unit will be processed and acknowledged to the donor. If material is dropped off without prior acceptance, the Library reserves the right to dispose of the material without acknowledgement.
- Support the Library’s mission;
- Do not duplicate existing holdings;
- Are free from markings, damage, and stains;
- Do not need extensive conservation;
- Are free from donor restrictions.
Types of Materials
Books
- Preference is given to titles published within the last five (5) years.
- Books of important historical value will also be considered.
- In general, the Library only accepts journal volumes or issues that fill in gaps in existing journal runs.
- Different guidelines are used for archives, manuscripts, and special collections donations.
- Contact the Archives & Special Collections Unit concerning these donations.
How to Donate
Donors must contact the Library to discuss potential gifts before bringing or sending them in. Contact the Collection Development Unit directly at (415) 476-8415 (Monday - Friday, 9 am – 5 pm); or email Anneliese Taylor.
Donors are asked to provide a list of items to be donated.