Book scrap refers to discarded or damaged books that are no longer suitable for resale or reading. This includes books that may have torn pages, broken bindings, outdated content, or significant wear and tear. Book scrap can come from various sources, such as libraries, bookstores, schools, and individuals who are cleaning out old collections.

Book scrap is often categorized into different types based on the condition and nature of the books. These categories may include hardcover books, paperback books, textbooks, encyclopedias, or novels, each with varying levels of quality and potential for reuse. Damaged books with valuable content may still be salvaged for parts, such as the paper or cover, for recycling or repurposing purposes.

In the recycling industry, book scrap is typically processed to recover paper fibers, which can be reused to create new paper products. Some books, particularly rare or collectible ones, may be salvaged for parts, such as pages or illustrations, that can be used in art projects or repurposed in creative ways.

The recycling of book scrap contributes to reducing waste and conserving resources. It also plays a role in reducing the environmental impact of the book publishing industry, especially as the digital age continues to change the way people consume literature.