What's a fun way to pass on my old books?

One of my favorite ways is to host a book swap with friends! It's like a mini party where everyone brings books they don't read anymore and goes home with new ones. Plus, you get to chat about books you love!

Is donating books a good idea?

Absolutely! Libraries, schools, and charities always appreciate book donations. It's like giving your books a new home where they can be useful to others. I love the thought of my old favorites being enjoyed by new readers!

Can I sell my old books online?

Yes, you can! There are plenty of websites where you can list your books for sale. It's a neat way to make a little extra cash and keep those books in circulation for someone who might need them.

Are there creative uses for old books besides reading?

For sure! You can use them in crafts, like making artistic bookends or unique decorations for your home. Some people even use old book pages for wrapping gifts, which looks super chic!

How do I decide which books to part with?

That's the toughest part, right? I usually ask myself if I will read it again or if it holds sentimental value. If it's just gathering dust and I have no real attachment, it's probably time to let it go to someone else who will love it.

8 Ways to Pass on Old Books ...

I’m massively keen on reading, and at times have had a vast collection of books on all subjects. However, sometimes they threaten to take over and turn your house into a library, so it’s time to reduce their numbers and find them a good home. Here are some suggestions on what you can do with them.

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1. Charity

Charity Photo Credit: mark lorch

This is a great way of passing on books that you no longer want, especially if they are in good condition. The charity can use them to raise much-needed funds, and someone else can purchase a book at reduced price.

2. Hospital

Hospital Photo Credit: Alejandro Piamonte

Being in hospital is incredibly boring, so patients will love any reading material (it’s also a good home for magazines you’ve read). Simply contact the hospital library and arrange to donate your books.

Frequently asked questions

: One of my favorite ways is to host a book swap with friends! It's like a mini party where everyone brings books they don't read anymore and goes home with new ones. Plus, you get to chat about books you love!
: Absolutely! Libraries, schools, and charities always appreciate book donations. It's like giving your books a new home where they can be useful to others. I love the thought of my old favorites being enjoyed by new readers!
: Yes, you can! There are plenty of websites where you can list your books for sale. It's a neat way to make a little extra cash and keep those books in circulation for someone who might need them.
: For sure! You can use them in crafts, like making artistic bookends or unique decorations for your home. Some people even use old book pages for wrapping gifts, which looks super chic!
: That's the toughest part, right? I usually ask myself if I will read it again or if it holds sentimental value. If it's just gathering dust and I have no real attachment, it's probably time to let it go to someone else who will love it.

3. Bookcrossing

Bookcrossing Photo Credit: Mind Meld

The idea behind Bookcrossing is that you leave your book in a particular place, and register its location on their website. Then someone else can pick it up, read it, and pass it on. See bookcrossing.com

4. Swap with Friends

Swap with Friends Photo Credit: Wrote

This is a great idea if you live in a non-English speaking country and don’t have easy access to English language books. My local libraries have a very limited range of English novels, so swapping means that I can pass on books I’ve finished with and get some ‘new’ ones in exchange.

5. Sell on the Internet

Sell on the Internet Photo Credit: Johnny Vulkan

This is only really worthwhile if you have an unusual book that people will pay more for – it certainly isn’t worth selling your old paperback that exists in millions of copies. Do bear in mind that postage is capped, and work out if you can make enough money after fees etc.

6. Refuges

Refuges Photo Credit: Head in the Clouds...

Do you have any books that your children have grown out of? Your local women’s refuge would be very glad of them, as many families arrive there with very little.

7. Bookshop Credits

Bookshop Credits Photo Credit: brewbooks

If they are saleable, take them to a second-hand bookshop and get some credits towards ‘new’ books. You probably won’t get too much for them, but anything’s better than nothing, and you can effectively exchange them for some new reading material.

8. Recycle

Recycle Photo Credit: Chica and Jo

If the book is in poor condition or has no value to anyone, then recycle it. Sometimes they just have to move on to the great library in the sky! Please, never throw them in the garbage though …

There are lots of possibilities for finding new homes for unwanted books – what suggestions do you have? Are there any more creative uses for old books?

Top Photo Credit: jvoves

Feedback Junction

Where Thoughts and Opinions Converge

This makes me want to have a book clear out. I have way to many that I no longer read and it would be nice to let them have a good home. It seems a shame to keep all of those stories to myself.

I'll have them!!

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