Introducing LibraryLink: Helping Libraries generate revenue from their deaccessioned materials.

Baker & Taylor Closure Update

As of January 2026, Baker & Taylor has ceased operations, ending the Sustainable Shelves program. Libraries nationwide are facing delays and disruptions. Zoom Books LibraryLink offers immediate support with faster onboarding and dedicated library specialists.

The Industry Shift

What the Baker & Taylor Shutdown Means for Your Library

After nearly 200 years in business, Baker & Taylor's closure has created a significant gap in library services. Here's what libraries are facing—and how we can help.

The Challenge

  • Sustainable Shelves program discontinued
  • No credits for weeded books
  • Loss of shelf-ready processing
  • Longer wait times for new acquisitions
  • Staff overwhelmed with manual processing

The Zoom Books Solution

  • LibraryLink handles all deaccessioned materials
  • Earn revenue from your weeded collections
  • Simple pickup and logistics coordination
  • Fast onboarding—start within weeks
  • Dedicated library partnership specialists

Why Libraries Choose Zoom Books

The Trusted Sustainable Shelves Alternative

Library revenue generation from weeded books

Revenue Generation

Turn your deaccessioned materials into actual revenue—not just credits. Receive payments for books with resale value through our extensive marketplace network.

Environmentally responsible book recycling for libraries

Zero-Waste Commitment

Every book is responsibly handled. Items without resale value are recycled through our certified paper recycling partners—nothing goes to landfill.

Simple library book weeding process

Simplified Logistics

We coordinate pickup of your weeded materials. No need to manage shipping, storage, or disposal. Focus on serving your patrons while we handle the rest.

Library impact tracking and sustainability reporting

Impact Reporting

Receive detailed reports on your collection's journey—books resold, materials recycled, and environmental impact. Perfect for stakeholder communications.

Side-by-Side Comparison

How LibraryLink Compares to Sustainable Shelves

Feature Baker & Taylor Sustainable Shelves Zoom Books LibraryLink
Program Status Discontinued Active & Growing
Compensation Model Credits for future B&T purchases Direct revenue payments + flexible options
Pickup & Logistics Library shipped to B&T facilities We coordinate pickup from your location
Processing Time 30 days for credit Fast processing with regular updates
Environmental Tracking Basic recycling confirmation Detailed impact reports & sustainability metrics
Library Support General customer service Dedicated library partnership specialists
Onboarding N/A - Program ended Start within weeks—priority for B&T libraries

Getting Started

How LibraryLink Works

Transitioning from Sustainable Shelves? Here's how easy it is to partner with Zoom Books.

1

Contact Us

Fill out our quick form below or call our library team. We'll discuss your collection size, weeding schedule, and specific needs.

2

Schedule Pickup

We coordinate logistics based on your timeline. Whether you have boxes or pallets, we'll arrange convenient pickup from your facility.

3

We Process & Pay

Our team evaluates your materials. Books with resale value generate revenue for your library. Everything else is responsibly recycled.

4

Receive Reports

Get detailed impact reports showing books resold, materials recycled, and your library's environmental contribution.

Library Partners

What Libraries Say About Us

Process Impact Statistics

2M+

Books Processed Annually

500+

Library Partners

98%

Diversion from Landfill

15+

Years of Experience

Common Questions

Baker & Taylor Transition FAQ

What happened to Baker & Taylor's Sustainable Shelves program?

Baker & Taylor announced its closure in late 2025, with operations fully ceasing by early 2026. The Sustainable Shelves program, which helped over 800 libraries manage weeded materials for credits, ended along with all other B&T services. This has left thousands of libraries seeking alternative solutions for their deaccessioned materials.

How quickly can my library start with Zoom Books LibraryLink?

We're prioritizing onboarding for libraries previously using Sustainable Shelves. Most libraries can begin within 2-4 weeks of initial contact. Our team will work with your schedule to ensure a smooth transition with minimal disruption to your operations.

Do you offer credits like Sustainable Shelves did, or actual payments?

Unlike Sustainable Shelves which provided credits for future Baker & Taylor purchases, Zoom Books LibraryLink offers flexible compensation options including direct revenue payments. This gives your library more flexibility in how you use the funds generated from your deaccessioned materials.

What types of materials do you accept?

We accept a wide range of library materials including hardcover and paperback books, textbooks, media (CDs, DVDs), and more. During your initial consultation, we'll discuss your specific collection and any unique materials you need to process.

How do you handle materials that can't be resold?

Zoom Books is committed to zero-waste operations. Materials without resale value are processed through our certified recycling partners. Paper products are pulped and turned into new materials. We provide detailed reporting on all recycling activities for your sustainability records.

Can you handle large-scale weeding projects?

Absolutely. We work with libraries of all sizes, from small community branches to large academic institutions. Whether you're processing a few hundred books or tens of thousands, our logistics team can coordinate appropriate pickup solutions including pallet shipments and trailer loads.

What areas do you serve?

Zoom Books LibraryLink serves libraries across Canada and the United States. Our logistics network allows us to coordinate pickups from most locations. Contact us to confirm service availability in your area.

Contact Zoom Books for Baker Taylor alternative

Start Your Transition Today

Ready to replace Sustainable Shelves with a reliable, revenue-generating solution? Fill out the form below and our library partnership team will contact you within 24 hours.

    Fill out this form or call us to see how your library can make more!

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