Where to get rid of stuff.

Books - donate to the library.

Paint - some cities have a free paint exchange. You can drop off or get paint for free.

Oil - auto parts stores recycle oil and brake fluid.

Monitors and electronics - cities have a hazardous waste disposal day. Ask city hall.

Cel phones - donate to groups that recycle them and give them to people who need to make emergency calls.

Building materials - there are building material exchanges online.

Metals and plastics - take them to recycling centers. Industrial ones will buy aluminum, brass and copper at premium prices.

Magazines - give them to community centers, convalescent homes, laundromats, battered women's shelters, etc. Do it before they get old.

Medical equipment - in Southern Cal, the Convalescent Aid Society takes it away for you.

Freecycle is a "want ads" for people who are giving stuff away. There may be one in your city.