We aren’t fans of giving away books, but sometimes it feels like you’ve ‘outgrown’ them. At times like this, it’s nice to be able to give them a second life. Here are five things you can do with old books instead of having them gather dust in the attic.
Turn them into something else
There are an infinite number of things that you can make from old books. How about a storage box for secret treasures? Or a lampshade? Or – for something a little easier – you can simply use the pages as a canvas for drawings or paintings. You’ll find plenty of inspiration on Pinterest.
Take them to a Little Free Library
Little Free Libraries – or Mini Libraries – are becoming increasingly popular. Based on the principle ‘Take a book, return a book’, these small, accessible book exchange boxes come in the form of little cabinets that are located in front of a house, on a street corner or in communal buildings and coffee shops (to name just a few). They’re a great way to bring communities together and to make someone else happy with a book that you no longer want or need. Make sure that the books you leave behind are in reasonable condition and not too old – the system only works if people also leave nice books. To find a Mini Library in your area, go to Freelittlelibrary.org, where you can also register your own if you fancy setting one up yourself.
Start a book exchange club
If you know others who love to read, it might be an idea to meet once in a while and exchange books. This way you can make nice, new discoveries without your bookcase getting overloaded. One way to do it is to get a ‘voucher’ for every book you bring, which can be redeemed against another book from someone else.
Donate them
Libraries, thrift shops, prisons, schools or shelters: there are plenty of places that can make use of books. Ask around your neighborhood and maybe you can make someone very happy with the books that you no longer want or need.
Regift them
Last but not least, you can give away a book that you don’t want to read (anymore) to a colleague, friend or family member who you think might really enjoy it. Moreover, it’s always nice to be able to discuss the story together afterwards.
Source: Bookriot.com
Photography Plush Design Studio/Unsplash.com
