FAQ | Epic Book Drive

What is our goal?

The goal for each school is to collect 150 boxes of books. Each team will need to strategize about where to collect and store your books during the course of the Book Drive. Our book boxes will stack nicely so you do not need too much space for storage. For Clubs collecting 150 boxes or more, Better World Books will send a truck to pick them up.

What if we collect less than 150 boxes?

If you collect less that 150 boxes of books, there is one extra step required. It is called "PreScreening" and it works with the Better World Books databases to determine which books to send. You will be given access to the PreScreening feature in our Client Portal where you will enter the ISBN number (it’s right on the book) of each book to determine whether to ship it or keep it. Once you have determined which books to send, you will be able to print prepaid UPS labels and even schedule a UPS pickup. Each Club will need to responsibly dispose of the books not sent. Better World Books will be happy to offer suggestions.

How many books fit in a box?

Our book boxes are approximately 17 x 10 x 11, about the same size as copy paper boxes. Each box will hold approximately 35 books. It is best to place most books flat in the box. You can fill in the edges with books standing up but remember to place the spines toward the bottom or side of the box. A tightly packed box will be easier to stack and ship.

What is the Client Portal?

Each group will be given access to the ReUse First Client Portal. In the Portal you will be able to order supplies (book boxes) and schedule a shipment for your books. If you collect less than 150 boxes, this is where you will prescreen your books and print prepaid UPS labels.

What kind of books do we collect?

ISBN Number

We love all books with ISBN numbers (books published since 1970) with a few exceptions. Please do not send the following:

  • Encyclopedia sets
  • Magazines
  • Reader's Digest Condensed Books
  • Dirty, Moldy or Damaged Books
  • Grade School or High School Textbooks
  • Children's Books Ages 12 and Under

Where can we find books?

This is the fun part! Use your collective imaginations to develop a plan. Consider a high-visibility weekend event. Set up collection boxes at your school, local places of business, churches, etc. Most importantly, get the word out. Given people ample time to go through their book shelves and get boxes of old books from the closet. People will astound you with the number of books they give you. Raid your parents’ bookshelves. Talk to your school and local librarian about their unwanted books. We will share success stories as the Book Drive unfolds.

Will we have support?

Yes! Each school will have a dedicated Better World Books Representative to offer advice and encouragement and to answer any questions.