York University Libraries accepts gifts that significantly enhance the strengths of existing collections and support the teaching and research programs, present and anticipated, of the University. We especially welcome unique materials to support teaching and research at York, i.e. materials that are otherwise difficult for us to acquire through regular acquisition channels.
Donations can be discussed with Adriana Bugyiova, Scholarly Resources Manager (adrianab@yorku.ca, 416-736-2100 ext. 22798). For donations of archival material or rare books, please contact the Clara Thomas Archives and Special Collections.
Decisions to accept or decline donations will be informed by our current collection policies and practices, and by the University's current and anticipated teaching and research needs. As there are significant costs associated with processing collections, all donations must be evaluated carefully to determine suitability for our collection.
General Procedures
Potential donors will be asked to supply a title list, or to pre-select items for evaluation by the Libraries.
The following types of material are not accepted for donation:
- Textbooks, course packs, or classroom anthologies
- Trade or mass-market paperbacks
- Titles already owned by the Libraries
- Periodicals/magazines/newspapers
- Materials in poor condition
- Materials outside our collection development scope
Alternatives to donating to the Libraries:
- Atticus Books
- Better World Books
- BMV Books
- Textbooks for Change (there is a drop box at Bronfman Library near the stairs, a box near the entrance of Frost Library, a box on the first floor of Scott Library, across from the reserves desk and a box at Steacie Library, in the back by the periodicals.)
Evaluation and Tax Receipts
A tax receipt may be issued by York University Division of Advancement based on the criteria below.
Estimates of the value of a gift of materials are acceptable to Revenue Canada if they reflect the fair market value of the items as determined by an independent expert. Estimates of the value of the gift are made after materials have been accepted and are the property of York University.
Please note:
- Receipts will be issued only for materials valued at $750 or more.
- Library staff may provide valuations for gifts with a fair market value of less than $1,000 if they are knowledgeable in the field and qualified to appraise the gift at its fair market value.
- In all cases when the value is more than $1,000, and in some other cases, the Dean of Libraries or delegate will arrange for an evaluation by an external appraiser.
- Publications acquired using funds from York University (such as a Personal Expense Reimbursement account) may be transferred to the Libraries if they meet its acquisition criteria, but they will not qualify for a tax receipt.
Make a Gift Now
Thank you for supporting York University Libraries.
(Updated: September 2022.)
Students at York deserve a world-class library. Please help us build one. Find out how to support York University Libraries with a one-time gift, scheduled payments, or a monthly gift.