Literacy Programs in Albuquerque, NM: How to Get Involved
Albuquerque has literacy programs working to get books into the hands of people who need them. Whether you want to donate books, find free reading materials for your family, or just get rid of books you no longer need, there are options available right here in the metro area.
Last verified May 2026 · Original research by Josh Eldred
New Mexico Literacy Project: Book Donations That Keep Books in Circulation
The New Mexico Literacy Project is a book collection and book collection program based in Albuquerque. I operate a free 24/7 book drop-off at 5445 Edith Blvd NE, Unit A where anyone can donate books, DVDs, and CDs in any condition.
Here's how it works: donated books get hand-sorted. Some are resold to fund operations. Others are kept in circulation through resale. Children's books are donated free to UNM Children's Hospital, group homes for adults with developmental disabilities, school libraries in small communities across northern New Mexico, and Little Free Libraries throughout the metro. The goal is simple — keep books in circulation and out of the landfill.
What makes this program different is accessibility. There are no condition restrictions, no business hours to worry about, and no sorting required on your end. The outdoor drop box is available around the clock, every day of the year.
How to Donate Books in Albuquerque
Keeping books in circulation doesn't require a major time commitment. One of the most direct ways to contribute is donating books you're no longer using. If you're cleaning out shelves, downsizing, handling an estate, or just want to clear some space, your books can make a real difference.
The New Mexico Literacy Project accepts donations at our Edith Blvd drop-off location anytime — day or night. Every book donated is a book that stays in circulation rather than ending up in a landfill.
Free Children's Books for Families
One of the core parts of what I do is providing free children's books to local families. Research consistently shows that having books at home is one of the strongest predictors of reading achievement. I work to make sure Albuquerque families have access to books regardless of their budget.
Why Literacy Programs Matter in New Mexico
New Mexico faces real literacy challenges. Programs that collect and keep books in circulation help address the gap between book availability and the communities that need them most. By keeping books circulating through donation, resale, and free distribution, organizations like the New Mexico Literacy Project help build a more literate state.
Donate Your Books — Free 24/7 Drop-Off
Any condition, no sorting required. Just drop them off.
5445 Edith Blvd NE, Unit A, Albuquerque, NM 87107
Donate BooksFrequently Asked Questions
What literacy programs are available in Albuquerque?
Albuquerque has several literacy programs. The New Mexico Literacy Project collects donated books and keeps them in circulation, with free children's books for local families. The Albuquerque Bernalillo County Library system and local schools also run literacy initiatives.
How does the NM Literacy Project work?
The New Mexico Literacy Project operates a free 24/7 book drop-off at 5445 Edith Blvd NE, Unit A in Albuquerque. Donated books are sorted, then either resold to fund operations or kept in circulation through resale. Children's books are donated free to UNM Children's Hospital, care facilities for adults with developmental disabilities, and school libraries in rural counties outside Albuquerque.
How can I donate books in Albuquerque?
The easiest way is to drop off books at the New Mexico Literacy Project's 24/7 outdoor drop box at 5445 Edith Blvd NE, Unit A, Albuquerque, NM 87107. I accept books, DVDs, and CDs in any condition. No appointment or sorting needed.
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