Abstract: A method and apparatus for marking recyclable books permits the user to retain the recyclable value of the books while effectively deterring third-parties from reselling books which are intended to be recycled. The method includes transporting recyclable books past a designated marking location and marking at least a portion of the covers of the books with a distinguishing mark, and then transferring the marked books away from the marking location. The apparatus includes a marking device for marking the covers of the books, a transport device having a first and a second end for transporting the books past the marking device so that the covers of the books become marked thereby, and a removal device for moving the books away from the marking device after the covers of the books have been marked thereby.