In the market for a $250 pool table? How about a $10 chair or a $15 desk?

The Ohio State campus is home to more than 300 buildings and thousands of pieces of equipment and furniture that eventually need replacing.

When those desks, computers, couches and assorted other items need to go, the OSU Office of Surplus Materials Disposal manager Michele Tiburzi is responsible for transferring them to other departments or selling the property.

“Whenever departments want to get rid of some of their stuff, whether it’s old or outdated, or they’re just getting new and want to replace stuff, they fill out a form online and they can deliver it here,” Tiburzi said. “Then we go through everything we get and the stuff that works and we think we can transfer or sell. … Everything else we try to recycle as much as we possibly can.”

OSU Surplus receives equipment from all OSU buildings, but Tiburzi said the most prominent items are office supplies and computer equipment.

Following its arrival at OSU Surplus, the property is tested to determine whether it should be put on the floor for sale or recycled.

“You learn in this business pretty much what sells and what doesn’t, and it’s basically based on condition,” Tiburzi said. “If it’s in reasonable condition, people love to buy that stuff.”

Tiburzi said the low prices on items attract many customers.

To read the rest of the story, check out The Lantern Monday.