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Question: I have boxes and boxes of excellent books that I would like to donate. Will someone pick them up? There are too many for me to transport.
Answer: If you have at least 10 filled boxes, the Friends of the Library of Hawai‘i will pick up the donation. Pickups are generally completed within two weeks of the request, according to the nonprofit’s website. To schedule a pickup, fill out an electronic form here at 808ne.ws/1lty860 or call 536-4174.
Any donation smaller than that should be dropped off at the Friends’ warehouse in Halawa Valley, at 99-1132 Iwaena St.; it’s open weekdays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Or you might prefer to drop off items at your nearest public library; be sure to call ahead first to ensure donations are accepted there.
It’s worth noting that although the nonprofit does provide the pickup service for large donations, it also is more than happy to accept large donations at its warehouse, from those who are able to transport the items themselves.
You mentioned books, and the Friends also appreciate donations of artwork, vinyl records, CDs, DVDs, maps, puzzles, games and other items in good condition. Hawaiiana, Pacific and vintage materials are especially prized, and are accepted regardless of condition.
“We are very appreciative of everyone who helps us fulfill our mission of supporting Hawaii’s public libraries,” said Nainoa Mau, the nonprofit’s executive director, who explained that many donated items are sold at the Friends’ popular book, art and music sales, which raise money to enhance library programs statewide.
There’s a big book and music sale coming up Jan. 16-18 at Washington Middle School, Mau said.
For a full explanation of the group’s donation criteria, see 808ne.ws/1MVHS2j. It’s important to follow the rules so that the nonprofit, which relies mainly on volunteers, is not stuck disposing of items that can’t be sold or donated to other literacy efforts.
In general, don’t try to donate books, records or other items that are moldy, broken, damaged, dirty or infested with insects. As the Friends’ website states, “Use the rule of thumb: if you would not want them in your house, no one else would either.”
Among the specific types of items the nonprofit won’t accept, regardless of condition: magazines (except Hawaiian or Pacific subjects); cassette tapes; VHS tapes; textbooks, encyclopedias, medical and law books more than 5 years old; government reports, pamphlets and binders; travel books more than 10 years old, unless they have many pictures, appear to have literary value or are about Hawaii or the Pacific.
Charitable donations to the Friends of the Library of Hawai‘i are tax-deductible, so be sure to get a receipt.
Q: Does the ADA apply only if you work for the government?
A: No. Virtually any employer with 15 or more workers is subject to the Americans With Disabilities Act or its preceding legislation. As the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission explains: “Title I of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 prohibits private employers, state and local governments, employment agencies and labor unions from discriminating against qualified individuals with disabilities in job application procedures, hiring, firing, advancement, compensation, job training, and other terms, conditions, and privileges of employment. The ADA covers employers with 15 or more employees. … The ADA’s nondiscrimination standards also apply to federal sector employees under section 501 of the Rehabilitation Act, as amended, and its implementing rules.”
Mahalo
Mahalo to the couple shopping at Don Quijote on Nov. 24. This octogenarian standing behind them in the checkout line around 10:40 a.m. wasn’t aware that the man told the cashier to add the cost of my groceries to his bill. This physically handicapped woman looked for them, but they disappeared so quickly. My appreciation and thanks to them for their generosity and kindness. Aloha. — An 87-year-old lady
Write to “Kokua Line” at Honolulu Star-Advertiser, 7 Waterfront Plaza, Suite 210, 500 Ala Moana Blvd., Honolulu 96813; call 529-4773; fax 529-4750; or email kokualine@staradvertiser.com.
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