IU Indianapolis University Library only accepts book donations when such acceptance furthers the mission of the University Library and when the intent of the donor can be reasonably and legally accommodated without undue stress upon the University Library’s resources, systems, and staff. The University Library will not accept book donations for which it cannot provide appropriate stewardship. To inquire about donations, contact the subject liaison responsible for the discipline of the donation.
Specific collection interests include philanthropic studies and the history, literature, geography, and people of central Indiana. Outdated textbooks, superseded editions, duplicate copies, material in foreign languages other than those taught at IU Indianapolis, items in poor physical condition, and periodicals are not appropriate for addition to the collection.
Those wishing to make monetary contributions in support of University Library collections should refer to library.indianapolis.iu.edu/about/gift for more information.
Please refer to the Herron Art Library and Ruth Lilly Special Collections & Archives collection policies for specifics about donations to those library departments.
Conditions of Acceptance
The University Library reviews all book donations prior to acceptance and reserves the right to decline an offer of material that is already held in the collections, that does not meet collection needs, or which the University Library cannot steward appropriately. To facilitate the library’s review, the appropriate subject librarian or the Director of Content Services may request a bibliographic list from or a consultation with prospective donors.
The Library will make all necessary decisions as to book donations’ retention, location, cataloging, and other considerations related to their use and disposition. Special terms or conditions requested by the donor should be discussed with the Dean of the IU Indianapolis University Library or his/her representative before the donation is accepted. Once a donation is transferred to the University Library, no part of it will be returned. Materials not suitable for the collection will be disposed of at the Library’s discretion as will any donations received without prior review by the library.
Assumption of Title
Materials become the property of the Board of Trustees of Indiana University when the donor signs a gift agreement conveying title, or when an authorized University Library representative takes possession. In the case of anonymous book donations, materials become the property of the Board of Trustees when they are received by the library.
Valuation of Proposed Gifts
To give donors the most current information and comply with the pertinent policies and/or regulations of IU Indianapolis, Indiana University Foundation, Internal Revenue Service, and State of Indiana, library representatives should contact the University Library Development Officer before discussing tax deductions, gift valuation, gift appraisals, and shipping costs with a prospective donor.
As appropriate, a donor is responsible for providing the valuation of a gift. Third party valuations are acceptable. Valuation of material under consideration for acceptance as a gift by the Library, whether by staff or paid or unpaid representatives, is considered a conflict of interest.
Gifts with an assumed or appraised value of over $1,000 or consisting of more than 100 volumes must be approved by the Dean of the IU Indianapolis University Library before acceptance.