Travelling Books
Posted by: Goulah
19th Apr 2011 10:26pm
Once upon a time I could not bear to get rid of a book when it was read and there was no room left on my bookshelves, on the floor around the bookshelves and in generally anywhere there was a spare spot.
Now I have hardened my heart and started turning my books into "travelling books". If you do not know the concept, it is that you write in the front of the book that it is in fact a travelling book and that the person who has picked it up is welcome to read it and then leave it somewhere for someone else to read.
A friend introduced me to this concept and since then I have left my books all around the world and hope that others get as much enjoyment out of them that I have done.
Now I have hardened my heart and started turning my books into "travelling books". If you do not know the concept, it is that you write in the front of the book that it is in fact a travelling book and that the person who has picked it up is welcome to read it and then leave it somewhere for someone else to read.
A friend introduced me to this concept and since then I have left my books all around the world and hope that others get as much enjoyment out of them that I have done.
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Comments 18
Woden1
I am too attached to my books to give them away. I have over 3000 now.
Anonymous
I have also heard of it happening in Europe. One of them is set up at a bus stop!
pietam6
that is a marvellous concept! I, also have a policy of 'paying it forward'...great believer in spreading the pleasure.
Trushka
Travelling books is a great idea, especially when luggage has to be limited. I first discovered the concept at a B&B in Ireland, and embraced the concept. But I do find that some books are definitely favourites and well worth a second, or even third read - hidden treasures to be found!
shelly47
Yes, Goulah I have heard of this and it is very generous of you to leave unwanted books for strangers to read after you have enjoyed them. I usually give books to my daughters and friends to read and pass on after I have read them. It is great to hear back from them how they enjoyed it too, and then they often lend books they have read back to me.
Why not sort though you books and give a box full to the local charities? That way you would be bringing a lot of pleasure to underprivileged people who maybe can't afford to buy books to read! Have fun and keep reading
Caz
I have seen this a few times. I to have a large collection of books an don't want to part with them, but there is only so much room. Sharig is caring
emmie
There's a site called bookcrossing.com where you can leave your book somewhere for someone to pick up or give it to them personally. There are regular get togethers for you to swap books face to face, and even allocated cafe shelves where you can go get/leave a book. I've left a book overseas even in Japan - but it wasn't collected and recorded. It's a great idea anyway if you want to check it out :)
lisa651
I've found a few travelling books in op-shops before, and after I read them I always leave them somewhere for someone else to find and enjoy. It's a simple feel-good action :-)
Goulah
It is hard at times though - the feeling of abandoning them to strangers. I can only hope that others give them the love that I did and that they enjoy them as much as I did.
arizona
Great idea Goulah. Have you turned to e-books or are you still a die-hard like me?
Joydy
I love books - love to hand them on - if you know someone that will enjoy reading them. Different books for different people. We have a holiday house leave books there for all and sundry and am lucky enough to find books I enjoy left behind by others. My favourite place is also the op shop - for a few dollars can buy as many as you like and return those that aren't to your liking. The traveling book is a good idea also. I have left books behind in hotel rooms if finished - some hotels and cavaran parks also have book exchanges - great idea share around the holiday reading. Keep up the good work - hope to find one of your books on my travels - if not always the op shop or second hand book shops. Keep reading!!!
Goulah
I was on the verge of "converting" but then I looked at my emergency stack of books (20 at the moment), tried to keep myself away from the op shops and realised that it would be almost impossible to use electronics. There is something so delightful about the feel of a book and the page turning.
irrepressible7
I dont think people are that reliable...its hard enough to get a friend to read, comment and return... good luck though...maybe strangers are more motivated...lol..
maitree
i am very much intarest to read this book
maitree
how can i get that
Goulah
Sometimes it is very hard to bite one's tongue isn't it?
Goulah
It is a matter of giving your books to others to read. It is pot luck that you ever find one.
irrepressible7
get what ?..... free books ????.....its about giving not getting dah!