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General Information

Contact and General Information about the Libraries (Staff, History, Mission, Hours, Employment, etc.)

Cash Donations

The University Libraries greatly appreciate donations made to support the Libraries and UMSL's mission

Who to Contact

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Thomas Jefferson Library

  • Academic books
  • Academic journals
  • Recent textbooks
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The Thomas Jefferson Library collects resources that support the University's teaching and research efforts.

Gifts to the Thomas Jefferson Library are accepted and retained at the discretion of the Head of Collection Development & Acquisitions.

Contact:
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St. Louis Mercantile Library

  • Rare books
  • General & secondhand books
  • Art (paintings, sculpture, etc.)
  • Railroad documents, photos, models, books, etc.
  • Waterways & River documents, photos, models, books, etc.
  • Saint Louis History
  • Other Americana & Historical Items

Founded in 1846, and chartered by the State of Missouri in that year, the St. Louis Mercantile Library is the oldest general library in continuous existence West of the Mississippi River.

The library holds several events throughout the year including lectures, exhibits, and the occasional book sale. Consider joining as a member, or follow their calendar for more details.

Gifts to the Mercantile Library at the University of Missouri-St. Louis are accepted and retained at the discretion of the Director of the Mercantile Library and the Curator of Art.

Contact:

Important Notes

We appreciate and acknowledge the generosity of those who consider making a gift of books or other information resources that extend and complement existing collections.

Unfortunately, the high cost of storage and processing makes it impossible for the University Libraries to accept all donations.

  • The Libraries are under no obligation to accept or acknowledge gifts which are not prearranged.
  • All gifts accepted are done so without restriction on their use or disposition.
  • Gifts will be briefly acknowledged in writing and may not describe the donation in detail.  If you need a list for tax or other purposes, please create one before you donate the items.
  • It is the responsibility of the donor to secure appropriate advice from a tax consultant regarding current IRS regulations for charitable gifts to nonprofit organizations. The establishment of the gift's value for tax purposes is the responsibility of the donor. IRS regulations prohibit the Libraries from providing appraisals of gifts.
  • If the donor expects to file an IRS Form 8283 for a gift valued at $5000 or more, an independent appraisal must be obtained and the Libraries must be notified before delivering your gift, as different procedures apply. The Libraries retain the right to decline the gift.