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How to Donate a Gift to the Library’s Holiday Giving Tree
A holiday giving tree is a practical way to place books, creative supplies and learning resources into the hands of children and teens who use the library. A carefully chosen gift can support reading confidence, quiet study, imaginative play and the sense that the wider community values young people.
For donors in Australia, giving to a library in Crestline, California, may involve an extra step or two. International postage, US customs rules, currency conversion and the different timing of summer and winter holidays all matter. The process becomes straightforward when you confirm the current needs before buying.
| Gift approach | Best for | Key point |
|---|---|---|
| New book or activity item | A personal, tangible gift | Follow the library’s age and condition guidelines |
| Gift card or financial contribution | Flexible purchasing | Check accepted currencies and payment methods |
| Group collection | Families, schools or workplaces | Set a clear budget and a delivery deadline |
| Digital support | Donors living overseas | Confirm whether the library can accept online gifts |
Start With The Library’s Current Needs
Begin with the Crestline Friends website and look for the latest Holiday Giving Tree announcement, wish list or contact details. A previous campaign may have requested particular age ranges, subjects or formats, while a current drive could focus on specific children’s programmes.
If the information is not clear, contact the Friends of the Library before purchasing. Ask whether gifts should be wrapped, labelled by age group, delivered to the library or sent to an organiser. A short email can prevent an unsuitable item from arriving after the collection period has finished.
Select A Suitable Gift
New books are usually a thoughtful choice, especially popular fiction, graphic novels, early readers, picture books and books that reflect varied cultures and family experiences. Art materials, puzzles, journals and age-appropriate educational games may also be useful if they appear on the approved list.
Avoid used items unless the campaign explicitly accepts them. Australian donors should also remember that a title popular in Brisbane, Melbourne or regional New South Wales may not match local demand in California. A current American bestseller list, the library catalogue or the organiser’s preferred retailers can guide a better selection.
Match The Gift To Its Recipient
Look for a recommended age, reading level or interest rather than choosing solely by appearance. A durable, engaging book for a reluctant reader may have greater value than an advanced title that remains unopened. Teenagers may appreciate contemporary fiction, manga, drawing supplies or gift cards for approved bookshops.
Resources such as VA Reads can help donors explore reading recommendations and literacy-focused ideas. Use these suggestions as a starting point, then check whether the Crestline campaign has any restrictions relating to content, format, duplicates or specific programme needs.
Wrap And Label It Clearly
If wrapping is requested, choose sturdy paper and attach a visible label stating the intended age range or category. Do not seal a gift so tightly that staff cannot inspect it if the donation guidelines require checking. A simple note such as “ages 8–10” or “young adult fiction” helps volunteers sort contributions efficiently.
Australian families may enjoy making the gift part of a school, workplace or neighbourhood collection. A community centre in Perth, a book club in Adelaide or a staff group in Sydney can each contribute several modest items. Keep a record of who donated what, particularly when a shared parcel is being prepared.
Plan Overseas Delivery Carefully
Contact the organiser about the preferred shipping address and final arrival date before sending anything from Australia. Allow extra time for Australia Post processing, international transit and US customs. Avoid perishable items, batteries and products that may create import complications.
Because Australian Christmas falls during summer and the US holiday season occurs in winter, seasonal packaging can be less practical for an international parcel. Use a firm box, protect corners and include the recipient organisation’s contact details inside the package. Compare postage costs with the price of buying from a US retailer and delivering locally.
Consider A Financial Contribution
A financial gift can be more efficient than international postage. It may allow the Friends to buy requested titles in US dollars, take advantage of local sales and provide materials that match the library’s catalogue. Ask whether online donations, gift cards or designated contributions are currently available.
Review how supporter funds are used through membership spending details. This can help Australian donors understand the difference between a restricted holiday gift and a general contribution supporting books, programmes, equipment or youth services.
Give Through A Group Or Event
A workplace, school or community group can set a simple collection target, such as ten new children’s books or a set amount for teen resources. Assign one person to confirm the wishlist, gather receipts and coordinate delivery. Clear instructions help avoid receiving unsuitable duplicates.
For groups connected with student or community organisations, guidance from Clemson IFC may offer ideas for organising charitable participation, fundraising and shared giving. Adapt those ideas to Australian settings, including workplace donation policies, school approval processes and transparent handling of Australian dollars.
The most helpful final step is to act early. Check the current instructions, choose a suitable new gift or approved financial contribution, and send it with enough time for the library team to sort and distribute everything. Your support can help a child discover a favourite author, join a programme or feel welcomed at the library during the holiday season.