Reading Public Library to host sustainability-focused Community Clothing Swap on Jan 24
(2-3 minute read)
Flyer by the Reading Public Library.
Residents looking to refresh their wardrobes while reducing waste are invited to take part in the Reading Public Library’s Community Clothing Swap on January 24, from 12:00 pm to 3:00 pm. The free event will be held in the library’s Community Room and is open to anyone interested in sustainable fashion, decluttering, and community conection.
Each year, Americans throw out more than 34 billion pounds of textiles - over 100 pounds of waste per person, with 66% of discarded clothing ending up in landfills. The library’s clothing swap offers a simple and impactful way for residents to keep garments in circulation longer, reduce environmental footprint, and give good-quality clothing a second life.
Participants are encouraged to read donation guidelines carefully before contributing items. Unacceptable items will be refused in order to maintain a clean, safe, and useful swap environment.
How to donate
Donation window: Sunday, January 18, through Friday, January 23
Donations must be brought to the Reference Desk.
Items will not be accepted on swap day.
Donation limits:
Up to 10 items per person
No more than 20 items per household
Accepted items
Shirts, pants, dresses, skirts, shorts, and outerwear
Clothing for all ages, sizes, and genders
Items must be clean, laundered, and in good condition, or brand new with tags
No stains, holes, tears, missing buttons/zippers, or major defects
Items not accepted
Shoes
Lingerie and undergarments
Formal wear
Costumes
Swimwear
Socks and hoisery
Accessories (belts, scarves, jewlery, ties, gloves, hats, mittens)
Household textiles (curtains, towels, bedding, etc.)
The library is planning a separate accessories swap this spring.
On swap day
Shoppers are invited to stop between 12:00 pm and 3:00 pm to browse and select items. A reusable bag is recommended for carrying home new-to-you finds. All leftover clothing will be donated to local charities or responsibly recycled.
The clothing swap encourages residents to reduce waste, support sustainability, and build community - all while discovering great additions to their wardrobes. For questions about donation guidelines or participation, visit the Reference Desk at the library.
