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Library Policies

Acceptance and Policy

Gifts are accepted by the Director of Library Services or designee and become Berea College property. 

  • Items are integrated into the general or Special Collections, with no named sections or shelving restrictions. 

  • The library reserves the right to evaluate, select, or dispose of gifts based on institutional needs. 

  • Donors claiming tax deductions must follow IRS regulations, including filing Form 8283 for contributions over $500. 

Gift Evaluation Criteria

Gift materials must meet collection development standards, including: 

  • Contribution to collection depth and breadth 

  • Alignment with library priorities 

  • Relevant, high-quality content 

  • Good physical condition 

Hutchins Library acknowledges all donations but does not provide itemized lists unless supplied by the donor. 

Donor Recognition

Hutchins Library publicly shares its Gifts Statement and provides copies upon request. Donor names are recorded in accession records, and bookplates may be placed in items if desired and agreed upon when the donation is received. 

Disposition of Gifts

Unadded gift materials may be: 

  • Returned to the donor if prearranged. 

  • Offered to Appalachian College Association (ACA) libraries. 

  • Provided to the Berea College community for free. 

  • Materials may be sent to outside organizations to be distributed as needed.