Donating Books
About the Book Collections
The Hanna Holborn Gray Special Collections Research Center collects books that support the teaching and research programs of the University of Chicago. The strengths of the rare book collection include, but are not limited to, the history of science and medicine, history of religions and philosophy, and literature and drama.
If you would like further information about Special Collections rare book holdings and whether or not your potential gift would be an appropriate addition to the collections, please submit the Contact SCRC form and a member of the Special Collections staff will respond.
If you would like to know more about collecting in general or making decisions about your book collection, the Rare Books and Manuscripts Section of the American Library Association has published an informative guide: Your Old Books.
How to Make a Donation
Please contact the Hanna Holborn Gray Special Collections Research Center either by phone (773-702-8705) or using the Contact SCRC form, and a member of the Special Collections staff will respond.
Appraisals
U.S. law prohibits the University of Chicago Library as a recipient of a donation from valuing gifts or hiring an appraiser for income tax purposes. If you plan to claim a tax deduction for the value of your gift, you can search for an appraiser through the Association of American Antiquarian Book Sellers. The Newberry Library also maintains a current list of appraisal resources and Chicago-area appraisers.