DAVAO CITY — SM Davao is inviting book lovers and community members to take part in The Great Book Share 2026, a nationwide book donation drive organized by SM Book Nook in partnership with the National Library of the Philippines. The initiative aims to collect pre-loved books and distribute them to public libraries across the country.
A Simple Act That Opens Worlds
One book can open a world of possibilities, and that belief drives this year's campaign. Donors are encouraged to bring gently used or brand-new books that remain in good condition and are relevant to today's readers. The goal is to make reading more accessible to communities that lack adequate library resources.
The Book Nook Donation Hub is located at the 1L Main Mall of SM Davao, right beside Penshoppe. This accessible drop-off point makes it easy for shoppers and passersby to contribute. Every donated book becomes part of a larger effort to spark a love for reading and inspire future generations.
What Books Are Accepted
Organizers have set clear guidelines to ensure that all donations truly serve their intended purpose. Books must be in good condition, with no missing pages, intact covers and bindings, and no mold, water damage, or strong odors. Minimal markings are acceptable, but heavy highlighting or scribbles are not.
Recently published books are preferred, ideally from the last ten years, though older classics and culturally significant works are welcome. Language books in English, Filipino, and local Philippine languages are also accepted. Children's books, young adult novels, popular fiction and non-fiction, Filipino-authored works, and updated educational references are all highly encouraged.
Career and skills books covering business, information technology, and hospitality are valuable additions. Graphic novels and comics with learning or literary value, as well as books about local travel and tourism, are also accepted. These categories ensure that the donated materials appeal to a wide range of readers and serve diverse community needs.
What Cannot Be Accepted
To maintain quality and relevance, certain materials cannot be accepted. Textbooks older than five years are not eligible, as are old reference books with outdated information. Damaged books with torn covers, loose bindings, missing pages, mold, stains, or bad odor will not be accepted.
Highly technical or college-level textbooks are also excluded, along with outdated medical, legal, or scientific materials. Religious materials meant for conversion are not accepted unless specifically requested by partner libraries. Books containing harmful content such as hate, violence, discrimination, or explicit material are strictly prohibited.
Building Stronger Libraries Together
The campaign emphasizes that every donation contributes to building stronger libraries. Public libraries often struggle with limited budgets and outdated collections, leaving many readers without access to current and engaging materials. By donating pre-loved books, individuals can directly help bridge this gap.
The partnership with the National Library of the Philippines ensures that donations reach the communities that need them most. Books collected at SM Davao and other participating SM malls nationwide will be distributed to public libraries, schools, and community reading centers. This coordinated effort maximizes the impact of every single book donated.
How to Participate
Donating is simple and requires no registration. Individuals can visit the Book Nook Donation Hub at SM Davao's 1L Main Mall and drop off their books during mall hours. There is no limit to the number of books one can donate, and all contributions are welcome.
Organizers encourage families, students, professionals, and organizations to gather their pre-loved books and bring them to the hub. Sharing a book is a small act that can spark a love for reading and inspire a future filled with possibilities. Every donation brings knowledge, joy, and opportunity to someone new.
