It is the policy of the University Library to only accept 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.
Specific collection interests include Philanthropic studies and the history, literature, geography, and people of central Indiana. Outdated textbooks, superceded editions, duplicate copies, material in foreign languages other than those taught at IU Indianapolis, items in poor physical condition, and periodicals are not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.
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. In order to facilitate the library’s review, a bibliographic list may be requested of prospective donors. Donations will not be accepted without consultation with the appropriate subject librarian.
University 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 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
In order to give donors the most current information and to be in compliance with the pertinent IU Indianapolis, Indiana University Foundation, Internal Revenue Service, and State of Indiana regulations, library representatives should contact the University Library development officer before discussing tax deductions, gift valuation, gift appraisals, and shipping costs with a prospective donor.
Valuation of library-owned material or material under consideration for acceptance as a gift by the University Library, whether by staff or paid or unpaid representatives, is considered a conflict of interest. No references to price or value may be included in any correspondence or acknowledgement letter
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 University Library before acceptance.