Can I donate books after a flood or water damage in Albuquerque?

Flood and water-damage recovery is a frequent NMLP scenario in Albuquerque — basement flooding from monsoon season, plumbing leaks, water heater failures, sprinkler activations, evaporative cooler overflows. Most thrift channels reject water-damaged donations at the door; NMLP accepts them.

What NMLP accepts:

• Recently water-damaged books (within days) — call immediately. Early intervention can save the most important volumes (signed firsts, family Bibles, scarce regional books). Don't try to dry them yourself.
• Basement-flooded stacks — accepted in any quantity. Bag separately, label "wet."
• Mildewed and mold-damaged books — accepted; the warehouse handles with appropriate ventilation.
• Books damaged by plumbing leaks — common scenario; accepted as standard intake.
• Books damaged by evaporative cooler overflow — Albuquerque-specific; usually mineral-deposit damage as well as water. Accepted.
• Long-undisturbed water damage (basement that flooded years ago, books never moved) — accepted. Most route to Track 3 (paper recycling) but a few may be salvageable.

Time-sensitive guidance: if the damage is recent and the books are individually high-value, call 702-496-4214. After that, salvage chances drop sharply.