I always have bought books as gifts, for my children, my siblings, and my grandchildren, now. I have an opportunity to give books away right now to some teens who are in a group home waiting for foster placement. It feels so good. I love books, and I love to feed this hunger that has been expressed by one young person. Would you give books away in this manner?
[question posted by GardenGerty]
responses and comments:
We had a book drive here at one of the schools and I gave a whole box of books to the school. The books that they collected went to kids that could not afford to buy books. This also made me feel really good that I was able to help with the book drive. [babystar1]
this is a good practice to attract the readers. [saravananp]
oh yes I think it is a wonderful thing to do, I was never a reader myself but i do know how much some people get out of books, I would pass books on to people for sure.. [lilaclady]
I used to be more of a reader than I am now. I also seem to just be a book magnet, acquiring books that I have never purchased, often rescuing them from the trash. To some people having books is a real luxury. [GardenGerty]
I have given books as gifts. Bought books for donations during promotions by book stores, given books to libraries and unintentionally given books to people when the didn't return them. One of my favorite things to do is for a baby gift for a shower or something is to give them a copy of a book that I loved as a child like "Where the Wild Things Are" or the "Pokey Little Puppy." Its a good thing to give away books especially like you are doing. I have a large collection and I mean to leave my collection to a library when I pass away. [Aurone]
That is way cool. I am glad you can help this person quench their thirst for knowledge and reading. [Aurone]
No I don't give my books away. I do treasure books. I do lend my books to people who require them even though sometimes I am reluctant. If I have double books which I usually do since I get books donated etc yes I do like to give them to others who appreciate them. [ronaldinu]
I'm the same way! I always want to give away books I've already read and know I will probably never even open again, but they - just... won't. Let me! In fact, I have an entire boxful of books I've pulled out to donate to the local library and it's still setting in the bedroom! Maybe one day I will be able to bring myself to part with them... maybe. [manodogs]
I agree GG, books have got to be one of lifes best treasures to pass on..I have one lone book here that I bought in Ireland and it is wrapped up to keep clean and new condition and I am passing it on to my son..Hugs xoox [OceanTiara]
You and your multitude of jobs GG! lol xoxo hugs [OceanTiara]
My wife reads a whole lot of books. She buys most at garage sales etc. She does give them away but to friends and our daughter. She's never given them to a charity or the such though. HAPPY POSTINGS FROM GRANDPA BOB !!~ [webeishere]
I've still got a couple hundred paperbacks around here. Mostly romance novels. HAPPY POSTINGS FROM GRANDPA BOB !!~ [webeishere]
I love reading and it is always hard for me to give books away. in fact my house is full of books, I just moved and 70% of the boxes were books. I did a garage sale and put a tons of them for sale and that is the items that didn't go! I couldn't believe it. I was so disappointed that people were not interested with books. So I went to goodwill and give them away there hoping that poor families will get them for their children since there were a lot of kids books. I didn't think about the school, what an idiot, that was a great idea. I will do it next time. [frenchmom]
Books are special friends, and travel agents as well. You can go anywhere in the world with books. [GardenGerty]
That's a really wonderful thing to do :-) Yes, I often give my books away to people or organizations who need them. My family is used me buying books for presents, no matter what age I think books foster more reading. I started giving books when my children & nieces and nephews were young and have continued. At that time I became a volunteer GED helper and English tutor so that the kids would see how important reading and learning is. Besides books, I also save my magazine issues and drop them off at the local Veterans hospital. They are glad to get them for the Vets that reside there, and for the waiting rooms, and they even will have a porter come out and get them out of the car. Keep it up, that's a really great thing to do for others! [JoyfulOne]
Yes, it is important to go ahead and give magazines away as well. We who have all these options need to remember those who do not. [GardenGerty]
I give away only school and college books. I never give away any novels as I like to include them in my collection. [pkraj111]
The kind of books this student has asked for are school books moreso than entertainment. [GardenGerty]
Always... I always pass on books I have read to family or friends to read when I have finished with them. I never throw them away when someone else can enjoy them :-) [elemental69]
That is right. Someone else is sure to enjoy them as much as you do. There are even some organizations that collect and sell used books so that they can raise funds for other charities. [GardenGerty]
You have struck upon an excellent way to get rid of books, GG. Being the book lover that I am, I constantly struggle with trying to find a new home for my books where they will be appreciated. This gives me another idea in my quest to find someone who wants good books. [worldwise1]
My daughter in law works for an agency that places foster kids, and her Girl Scout troop collected books to give to the foster kids, many of whom have nothing but the clothes they are taken in, when they are removed from the home. The agencies get state contracts so right now St. Francis Academy is the placement agency, also Lutheran Brotherhood, and Youthville are names you might check on. It is really hard to turn loose of books, but this way we know we are enriching others. [GardenGerty]
I am so glad that you are happy to touch a person. I am sure the people who receive the books will be very glad. I myself could not see myself donating any books as my fiance and I are getting back into a reading frenzy and I do not think that either of us would want to part from the books even if we thought the book wasn't that great or as great as we expected. We would still want to keep it just in case our reading genre changed. [SomeCowgirl]
That is a good hobby to share.I did a lot of reading with my first husband, when the kids were little. When my current husband and I had to commute a ways to work, I read to him while he drove. When I was widowed, I had some college students who came over to listen to children and young adult literature. I have lots of good reading memories, but I also have books that I have no idea where I got them. [GardenGerty]
What a great thing,you did! That is awesome that you gave them books. I have gave books to friends and to the library before, it does give you a good feeling that your helping someone else. To me, giving a book is the greatest gift. I would be totally happy to receive a book! :) [SuzyQ12]
I just love books. Any and all. One can never have too many books! :) [SuzyQ12]
we used to have a club in our school that collected books that our fellows had read and then we submitted them in the library or to the one's who could not afford them and now when i am a university student my father still gets some books for me and i after reading them give them to some friends who share the same interest as me and we then exchange our books. it is a great learning experience and maybe the best habit i have. [amlegend]
I think it is neat that you recognize sharing books as a good habit.I hope you have many years of sharing this way. [GardenGerty]
Oh yeh i have in the past gave away books on free cycle.Sold some at car boot sales,that was way back mind you.I also gave some in to the local charity shop. My ex is more a reader than i am so he took a lot of his books away with him,but i know there are tons more up the loft & in bottom of bedroom wardrobe. Time to decide what to do with them i guess. Thats nice you gave away those books to teens Gerty !happy [LoudnProud]
Yes, sometimes giving things away gives us a lot of satisfaction, and more room as well. Going through them brings back memories. It sounds like your ex got custody of a few books. [GardenGerty]
Hi Garden, I don't have a lot of books and some of my books which were borrowed by friends before wan't returned to me! I love to lend it to friends but I expect them to return it, most of my books were given!happyhappyhappy [checapricorn]
I like to read a few books over again. I keep a few that have special meaning. I always enjoy a book, no matter what. [SuzyQ12]
i did give books any to the small library created by different charity group. especially those story books, i love to read books when i was young, and i read many many story books, and also bought many many of them, now, i already gave them away, but i m happy to b able to share my story books to others. Now, it's been too busy for working, i didn't read as much as b4, some of them i haven't finish (i still love to buy books & magazines), so if i finish them, i will give away to the library too ^_^ [cottonm]
You have a good plan going on, and I am sure the small library appreciates your donations. [GardenGerty]
sure. i never throw books or magazines away. always give then to somebody. a group home would be ab\n excellant place to carry them. [ANTIQUELADY]
A lot of my women's magazines go to the disability group I work with. [GardenGerty]
I give books to my family or friends or people we know as a gift or if I know they will gonna use it and they can get a lot of information in it. Like recently, I give my old books in my school days to my nieces and nephews as well as to some people we know, since they more likely will use it and may help them on their studies. I agree, that it felt so good to give the books that we treasure and helps us a lot to the people who will also use it and help them. It's good to know that you can help them in such matter. happy [kylie_quistis]
I am sure the young nieces and nephews appreciate them, and enjoy the fact that you used them first. [GardenGerty]
Yes, I do give books away quite often. I tend to overbuy books! The next house we get must have a library. We have a Friends of the Library group here in town & they have a book sale twice a year. People donate books & then the group sells them & gives the money to the library to buy items that are needed. Unfortunately our library is not well supported by the city so they really need this money. It feels good to be a part of this effort. I have also donated to Goodwill. Books are one of my greatest joys! [collieluv28]
That is a really good fundraiser, and it needs patron support. Nice plan to support the library. [GardenGerty]
I will be just as ready to donate my books as I would be to receive them. We take our books to the local library for donations. goodwill is also another benefactor of our "nasty" habit of collecting books. It feels so wonderful knowing that other people can enjoy the words and print that we enjoyed. [creematee]
If your hands are open, and your heart, you can both give and receive. How neat. [GardenGerty]
I buy books as gifts for friends and family, for my own enjoyment. When I'm done with books I don't collect or wish to keep I either donate them to the local library or hospital I've also donated them to other charities when I'm not in my home town area. If they don't get donated they have been passed on to family members. [saundyl]
I have certain books I collect, but others just pass through my hands. I love them, and then let them go. [GardenGerty]
Let's get something clear first. I am not an English native speaker, but, from my understanding of this language, to give books away, means to give something you own to others, not to buy something with the purpose of giving it to someone. I don't give books away. The books I buy for me are mine and I keep them. On the other hand, books are my favorite item to offer as birthday gift. [stvasile]
You have understood this discussion well. I have bought specific books as gifts for people in the past. I am a person who attracts things, like books--for instance, right now I have three or four boxes of books that a particular institution decided to throw away. Instead of taking them to the trash, my husband brought them home. They are not beautiful books, or not necessarily books I need. Some duplicate what I have. I have a friend who is teaching young adults who need homes by means of online classes. There is a girl who wants all kinds of books, serious books, text books, dictionaries, and math books. She is starving to learn, if you will. I have some books that I think will be just great for her. I always owned books, and so did my kids, and I want others to have that privilege. She has no family to provide for her, so I am helping. [GardenGerty]
I have tried to nurture the love of reading in my children, and now in my grand children. They can always expect book gifts from me, for any or no particular occasion! There is a nursing home close to our apartment. It has a small, tattered library. Those folks there don't have much and most of them can't get out, so I usually take my books over there after I've finished reading them. It's a small thing to do, but it seems to bring a lot of happiness and excitement to the faces of the patients when they see me coming with an armload of books. [janeives43]
I have worked in nursing homes. Some of the small ones really suffer for material goods, although I personally think the care is often more individual. Good for you to share with them. [GardenGerty]
Sure, that is a wonderful way to make a contrib ution without it costing anything, either. Were you the one who was discussing that website where they leave a book lying somewhere with a note in the front that keeps track of where it has been and each person who uses it then places it in some public place for another person to take? People might want to use disinfectant on it before touching, but otherwise it is a great idea! [drannhh]
Thanks for the link, BunGirl! [drannhh]
How nice. I wish I knew of a place like this to donate books to. I give a lot of mine to the nursing home I work at and would like to encourage others to donate their adult books to their local nursing home. As well as any magazines and especially unused greeting cards they don't want. [PrarieStyle]
We used to give packs of greeting cards as bingo gifts to our residents. It let them send greetings to others in a way that was more likely to fit their budget. [GardenGerty]
I would most definately give books away to a group home, a nursing home, whatever. The only books I will not part with are the ones I actually collect. I think it is wonderful that you are willing to help out others and help them find their little escapes in literature too. [lynnemg]
It just touched my heart when my friend shared what this young woman said about books and learning. She is disadvantaged, but has made a very intelligent analysis of her peers and how our government is not valuing the education of those in her situation. [GardenGerty]
I would. I once gave some of my Horse Books to a co-worker to give her her horse crazy niece. I did read them all first and only gave her the ones I was willing to give up. [ElicBxn]
That is very specific giving and so very suitable. I have certain books I would never part with, but I have more than plenty for myself and for others. I feel good about what I am able to give away. [GardenGerty]
right now we are in the process of packing up and we have a ton of books we don't need, we are going to sell the more valuable books to ebay and give the rest away, and throw out the outdated and worn out ones. we are book lovers too but we are moving 600 miles and only one truck so we cannot take everything. [Hatley]
I have had to deal with getting rid of family member's stuff. It is much kinder that you weed them out yourself. I hope you guys have a wonderful fresh start. [GardenGerty]
I used to give away books until I found out about ebay. Nowadays I don't give away books anymore. I sell them in ebay and get the cash instead............ [eagle_f15]
So far I have not had much luck with E Bay, and the books I am sending to this girl would probably not attract a market. She will love them though. [GardenGerty]
I think it's especially important to help young people get books. I would like to donate to help teens who are awaiting placement for a family. There are actually a lot of places to donate books here, but yours sounds like the best place. [writersedge]
I could try, but around here, they tend to want brand new gifts and things for children. Maybe they'll make an exception for books. [writersedge]
Oh yes, since I'm a bookworm too, giving books away to just about anybody as a gift is normal for me. I'd love to share those books that I myself have read and drew some valuable insights from, knowing that these individuals I give these books to will likewise learn from the materials and be encouraged. Cheers! [baruchaba]
Bookworms know how very valuable even a used book is to a learner. If it was important to you, then you are correct, they will be important to others as well. [GardenGerty]
I have a wide collection of different books from different authors. I seldom give my books away since I consider my collection a cherished treasure. But I did give some books to very important people whom I think will also cherish my books which I really consider a part of my life. It gives me pleasure to share a part of me to a special person, losing the book is all worth it! [WildWetJoyce]
Books that touch our hearts do become part of us. I was highly influenced by books as a teen and I hope to influence others as well. [GardenGerty]
What a lovely idea! I'm happy that you are able to make a wonderful difference in a young person's life. All children/teens deserve to have books of their own. If given the opportunity, I would do the same. Thanks for your inspiring deed! [beautyqueen26]
I think we just need to keep our eyes and ears open, for the opportunities will come by. Sometimes they speak quietly, but they are there. This started with a request for one book, I did not have it, could not find a used copy, but a librarian offered to buy it for her. I offered what I had, and just asked what she wanted. This is sort of a side project of some of us in our church choir, as that is where the teacher is who started the inquiry. [GardenGerty]
I often buy books but I don't often give books as gifts. If I will give books as gifts, usually I have the same books in my hand. I don't regard books as gifts to others because of several reasons. First, books pronounce like "losing" in Cantonese. Therefore, some people may mind it. Second, not many people like reading. Or they explain they have no time for it. I love China [youless]
I have heard that in some countries sound alike words sometimes make for bad meanings. Spare time is a luxury. I know. [GardenGerty]
I think that is great. It is wonderful to have people like you giving a precious resource. I think books are so important. My five year old is learning to read right now. It is so fun to watch his accomplishments. I loved readingin school. That was literally my form of escaping. I would sit in a tree and read. I was never a good tv watcher as a young person. I love to give books away. I think it helps develop great habits. I buy my children books all the time. I have used books as Wedding gifts and birthday presents. To answer your question...YES. I think it is a great form of gift giving. [deeesfamilyvalues]
Your mom was very perceptive and understanding. [GardenGerty]
I think giving books to children or anyone who is in need of them is a wonderful thing to do. It's always such a gift to know that someone who has the same hunger for good literature is being fed. [starryeyes90]
Starry, they best way to get me to do something is to tell me that someone is hungry. It happens this girl is hungry to learn, to better herself, and to escape the system. [GardenGerty]
I have a neighbor who is public school teacher. One day I was about to throw my children's old books. She approached me and asked if I could just give her the books and she would put them in their library. From then on I have always given books away to those who can still use them instead of just throwing them away. [rogercarie]
Your neighbor opened your eyes, and it sounds as if you have a very open heart. [GardenGerty]
Absolutely! Every child and teen deserves to have at least one book of his/her own. We should all try to make sure that is so. Books are a treasure - to have, to read, and to give away. [kenzie45230]
A lot of institutions have Angel Trees, where books can be donated, as well as warm winter clothes. I love giving and receiving books. [GardenGerty]
Yes, I have given books away :) And it does feel good, donating anything to a good cause should make us feel good :) I actually donated quite a lot to charity...I kind of wish I didn't do it though. Not because I don't want to donate...but because after I donated all those books, my mom told me about this thing her school is doing for the soldiers overseas. They were collecting stuff for care packages and sending them...one of the things on the list they wanted were books! >< I could have sent a TON to them...and I really wish I could have. It sucked! lol. [LilyoftheThorns]
Yeah! There defeniatly will be more oppurtunities to send things to them, unforntuatly like you said. But I'm happy to do it. Thank you so much for the link! I'm looking at it right now and I'm very interested! [LilyoftheThorns]
Yeah, I give away books that I don't want to read anymore. It's to make space for new books! I have a mountain of books and my sister too. So when I feel it's time to spring clean, I'll just go through my collection of books, see which ones I will never read again, sort them out, and then either give them away or sell them. I love books and I want others to love them too. Yeah, I've bought books for my nieces and nephew too. Best presents ever! I also gave away a couple of books through my blog a few months ago in conjunction with Buy a friend a Book (BAFAB). Other book bloggers were doing the same thing. [Josette_J]
That sounds like a fun thing. Buy a Friend a Book. Wonderful. [GardenGerty]
I give away books. In our school there is an activity that we need to bring our old books, books that we are no longer using. We will donate them for the unfortunate ones who cannot afford to buy books. And I'm happy that I'm able to help others and also it helps me lessen my things in my room. Good thing that we have this kind of activity in our school. Giving others an opportunity to help. [tikei18]
Giving feeds us in our souls. I am glad that your school is doing this thing. [GardenGerty]
Yes will definitely give them for the needy. Not for people who just want them but will end up doing nothing constructive with them. I'd prefer to have it with me than giving my books to such people :) [savitha_r86]
I hear you saying that you want the people you give books to to appreciate them because you have cared about these books. [GardenGerty]
The number one thing in gifts from my home is books. I love my books very much and am not sure I could give them away. I have however inherited books that I have given away to flea markets or to organizations that work with unfortunate people that get great joy from the book gifts. [teison2]
Basically that is what I am doing. Books that have no real emotional attachment for me, or that I have duplicates of, I give away if I can. It feels really neat knowing that I am helping others. [GardenGerty]
I would definitely give books away in that manner and think it's great what you're doing. Books fuel the imagination and the mind, and they great things to give away. I have a quite extensive book collection and tend to loan out my books that are more self help type or motivational books the most. [thinksf]
I do like to share books that have helped me, as they tend to help others, too. It gives people something new to think about. [GardenGerty]
I give my books to the city library. I gave my reference books in college and a few collection of fiction books. They welcome books which are given as donations.I do not regret giving them away because I know that some people would most need it and have a better use of it. It feels wonderful when you do something good for others. Whenever I have a book that I think I would no longer need or use, I always feel that I should donate it.happy [LoovesAmethyst]
That is very good. Libraries often struggle to find the funds to expand in all the ways that others need. I like to give things away as well. [GardenGerty]
I always give a book as a wedding present, i try to find one that fits the couple. I also write something nice in the book. Believe me no one else gives a book for this occasion. [savypat]
That is wonderful. I may have to borrow that idea. I like to give children a book with a corresponding toy. For instance, I found a little board book of the story The Velveteen Rabbit, and I made little velveteen rabbits to go with it. Long time ago. [GardenGerty]
Yes,sometimes I give away books. Itīs hard to know what kind of taste people have. But I know that my father has the same book taste as me. So send him some of the books I have read [ennasus59]
I wish you a great weekend. [ennasus59]
I'm in the middle of a declutter of my house at present,and have passed on quite a lot of books to local Charity shops in the past week or so..I might not intend to "Give" books away intentionally,but the boomerang principle doesn't seem to apply to books or DVD's in my case-I've "Loaned" some I've enjoyed to others and by the time I would consider rereading or rewatching them,they've gone and I can't get them back! I suppose that's the sign of a good book-You get to buy it again if you want to read it again! [ShepherdSpy]
I've been a Member of Local libraries wherever I've lived since I was growing up-Where I am now,though still a Member of one,I haven't actually borrowed books in a long while,as I now have to usually drive there rather than walk,which would have been the case in other places...Libraries,though good for access to a greater supply of books,are only good to read books personally..you can't give away or reloan books to others.. [ShepherdSpy]
Sure, I sometimes find a place that buys them or trades for them, that way I can get some other books I've been wanting without buying anymore. I've donated to the library and to churches. It feels good to know that giving someone something they can use and hopefully brighten their outlook on life. [gitfiddleplayer]
It might just seem like a small thing to you, but you can never tell when it is the thing that means the world to them. [GardenGerty]
I sure would and do. Like you I love to read and think books are an incredible tool. We can learn, imagine, dream, laugh.... I often donate books and give books as presents. I am happy that in our home we all enjoy reading. I think that the one thing we have the most in here is books LOL - the problem being finding where to keep them. We're running our of bookcases hehehe [arkaf61]
LOL that's why I'm lucky. We all love reading so there is never a problem regarding books, unless it's a book that we all want to read at the same time hehehehehe [arkaf61]
Being an avid reader, I love giving books as gifts. There is just nothing like the smell and feel of a new book! I've always freely lent out my own books, and it really never bothered my if it didn't come back. I figured it was on it's way to making others happy. When I moved from Massachusetts to Oklahoma, I gave away over 20 boxes of books, to nursing homes, group homes (veterans, teens, etc), and Good Will. Nowadays, most of the books I read are from the public library, so I have fewer to give away. Our library has several book sales each year, which I go to. This helps raise money to buy more books. [catdla1]
I find some wonderful, nearly new books at the public library sales. We also have a big community book sale in May, Kiwanis clubs raise money for charitable local activity. [GardenGerty]
I have a bit of an unusual circumstance when it comes to this question because, my wife has a used book business, so usually when I get a book and I finish it she turns around and sells it. She does package up a bunch of books every year and sends them to soldiers. A friend of mine has a son fighting in the war and she sends a box to his unit. Before then she would send them by finding a unit on booksforsoldiers.com [thedaddym]
Yes, you have a different circumstance. Thanks for the website about booksforsoldiers.com. I will have to look there as well. [GardenGerty]
Yup sure do once I read it thats it for me can never go back and read it again [Cajunhellcat]
You never know who you will really bless by sharing with them. I like to give them away if I will not reread them. [GardenGerty]
I definitely would do it.In fact i collect magazines and manyatimes give it to old age homes and any one who happens to show an interest in them. Certain books i hate to part with, however i have lost a few from my precious collection, when some borrowers failed to return them... [kiran8]
I hope others realise the value of books and take the trouble to maintain it well and return it.I am very careful when i borrow books, esp when i know that the owner is very particular about them. I generally ask people to return the books once they have finished reading>Most of the time they never do, and sometimes i get tattered books with some pages missing etc: so i now i refuse unless i am sure of the person.. [kiran8]
i do give books out but i rarely borrow my cgherishd books to people i would rather find them a copy as a gift, [BYOLA2871]
That is a good idea, and we have done that a lot in my family. [GardenGerty]
no i love gift the books to others..the second one i did..i think it is not that much work out for me..so i dont want to dot that..im having a great collection of books in my home..all kind books are here..have a nice time in mylot [srikool]
I hope you enjoy the books you are collecting. [GardenGerty]
yeah i gave the first book i read to my nephew. it feels good to teach a young one about how reading books can open a new world for you [hotshoes5000]
What a nice family tradition. [GardenGerty]
I am walking book exchange. I am constantly giving and recieving books. Knowledge is a dish best served to many. [travelinjon]
I like that quote. I can just picture you being a walking book exchange. [GardenGerty]
Go for it! This is a gift of life for these people, not just a book. [HappyFeats1]
Great response. I agree. [GardenGerty]
Hello my dear GardenGerty Ji, Before I part away with any of my books on any subjects, I would ensure its utility with a person, whom I am giving. I have many books which are not available in market, lkie Lony's trignometry with its Keys. I have certain books on grammer coming from my grand father, I do jnot give. My wife raeds lot many stories and Novels, during last summer, I gave away such books just to start some bussiness to a needy person, who is running house library. I would give it to some Public library. have a nice time. [chintoo07]
Hello my dear GardenGerty Ji, I support your views on Libraries in my country. But i would part away with my books only, when I am rest assured taht they will be kept properly in dignified manner, withouit even letting them lie on the ground un-attended. have a nice time. [chintoo07]
hmm.. buks.. i like to stay away frm them.. i prefer reading an ebook. i dont know many pple do not like ebooks. i guess u can easily give away ebuks without any emotional attachment. so its nice user frndly saaves the enviornment. can be passed on faster to many pple at the same time. thts wat i do..!! [pushkarmore]
The girl I am sending books to is not allowed internet access except for taking her high school classes. It is a good thing to share e-books as well. [GardenGerty]
I do buy books for Christmas and birthdays as presents. I do not give books away though that I like. I did give our sons's old text books to Value Village and I also gave my romance novels away, but I kept my writing books and my classical books and my husband has his Louis Lamour books. If I want to read the book again, or I need them, I keep them. If not, they go to Value Village, that is our second hand thrift shop department store. When I lived in Saskatoon, we took the books down to the second hand shop and traded them in for half price, but there are no second hand trade shops in our area. [suspenseful]
We do have a shop that will give us credits for used books. I just do not ever go there. I do have a good collection of Louis L'Amour, enjoyed them quite a bit. I also read Don Coldsmith, and Tony Hillerman. Both good authors about native Americans. I have donated to thrift shops as well. [GardenGerty]
Yes, I also have bought books for good causes like Elementary Schools, family court waiting room, and I've given away one we don't use anymore that are in good condition. [AnneMarie39]
Yes, when you give them away, they live on in other people's hands. [GardenGerty]
Yes, sometimes I donate books to undeveloped areas. It's really a meanful way to make the best use of our books, since we've already have the content of books in mind, there's no need to keep the books with us. Give books to those who need them badly so that they can go on the transmission of knowledge. [yoyodaisy]
It is an unending circle when we keep on giving. [GardenGerty]
It depends. Some I keep, some I give away, some I sell. [nanajanet]
I have not yet sold any. I guess I have one other category, some I lend out, indefinitely. [GardenGerty]
You are truly a blessing to these young people. Instilling a love of reading is a great idea. I would love to be able to donate books to a place where I know that they will benefit children. It is wonderful to be able to have an impact on their lives. When I was a child, I loved to read and didn't even realize it. It was just something that I did all the time without even thinking about it. I know that this is because of my mother. Every time my two sister's and I were bored, she would tell us to go and read a book. Reading can take you all over the world and teach you almost anything. It is something that you can do anytime in any place. I have never read a sign that said, No reading allowed here. That is just great. [Rozie37]
That is a great thing you do, Gerty. I enjoy giving books as gifts, too. There is a home for teenage moms in my area and a friend of mine makes it her personal charity to keep the library in that home stocked. The mom's are encouraged to take the books if they would like and I help her by buying replacements of the popular ones. [makingpots]
That is so great. I love being able to help with this, and I feel it is a real privilege to have that chance. I know how you feel about the group home library. [GardenGerty]
yaeh, speacialy here in my country where there are a lot of less fortunate children. i give away those books thats been old from me. at this point although its an old book atleast i can share to trhem the knowledge i got form that book. [tarakiboy]
Even though the book is old, the knowledge in it is always new. It is good to share them. [GardenGerty]
If we have books here that we wont read or have already read and wont read again, I will give them to our local library or to the Salvation Army. [kittenmc]
It is really great to keep the books going around to others who need them. [GardenGerty]
Yes, I would give books to children in need of them. I love reading books, and I think any opportunity to give them to people in need should be taken advantage of. [hablue]
Giving things away makes us rich in a way. [GardenGerty]
for me, i giving the books away when i saw some one really like the book and really will take care the book only i will give... i don't wish my book give to a person who won't take care the book... if i give the book to the person and later i know that the person not take caring on the book, i will never give the person any book.... [candysky]
It sounds like you really value your books. [GardenGerty]
I have always given books away as if I didn't there would be no room in my home for anything else. I have always enjoyed reading since childhood and buy a handful of books each month. I give my books away to charity shops but I'm even choosy about which charity shops I give them to. There are certain charity shops that I feel are taking advantage of people's good nature as they're selling battered old books for Ģ1 or Ģ2 or silly prices sometimes which are even more than the original cover price. I prefer to give my books to the shops which will sell them for a reasonable price so people can afford them, e.g. prices ranging from 25p to 75p. So basically yes I do give books away to places where I feel they will benefit others but not to greedy "charity" shops that are trying to make a huge profit by selling books at prices which makes them difficult for others to afford... [anonymili]
I agree, it is not very charitable of some shops. They get their wares for free, then make serious profit off of them. [GardenGerty]
I love books and love to bought books as gift to my friends,I bought a book about how to be a perfect woman as her birthday gift last week,lol,I will be happy to recive a book too. [sharon1989]
Books do make excellent presents. I like to receive them. [GardenGerty]
Actually, I re-read mine so much they are practically falling apart LOL The only time I ever gave books away was when we got out of foster care I had numerous childrens books...I sold them all on Ebay. ~~IN SEARCH OF PEACE WITHIN~~ **AGAINST THE STORMS, I WILL STAND STRONG** [twoey68]
These books that I am giving away came to me without me looking for them. Certain books will always be reread. I will keep them. [GardenGerty]
Yes I would as this is a wonderful idea, kids need books and sometimes books settle kids down. I am gla that somebody has come up with this idea asit is a very helpful thing. Foster kids need to be thought of also. They really need the help as most of the facilities can't afford to buy any extras for these kids so if you donate to them then the kids can take turns reading these books and the facility can spend more money where it is needed. [12345fun]
This is true. I want my friend to understand that she has given me a privilege by letting me share with this young lady. [GardenGerty]
I do agree with all the above responses.In my opinion a book is the most valuable gift either as the recipient or the giver.One cannot know the true potential of a book since it caters to the needs of different persons in varying degrees.The way in which a book influences you might not be having the same effect on me and vice versa.When you give away a book to the right person as in your narration I think it is more than a charity done to that person, instead of you are mentoring him. [cosmopolitan]
That is right. My friend is mentoring this student of hers, and she is letting others of us join in the process. [GardenGerty]
I think that would be a great idea and yes I would do the same. [DaddyOfTheRose]
Yes, I hope we all get lots of opportunities to help others. [GardenGerty]
I only buy books for people if I am sure they are really interested in reading it. I don't believe in giving someone a book in anticipation of them reading it to 'enlighten' them or trying to change their beliefs. Basically I treat it under then zen: Education cannot be forced if someone is not willing to learn. [taiguy]
This young lady asked for some pretty specific books and it is the type that we are trying to send her. She is so starved for reading material she has read some pretty heavy material and read it over and over again. [GardenGerty]
I would give books away like that if I had the opportunity. I usually give my books away when I am done reading them, except for a few select books that I keep. I figure that if I got enjoyment out of them, then someone else should be able to. I sometimes donate them to the local Goodwill, other times I donate it to the local library that has a pretty pitiful collection of books. It is a small town and the library is really, really small. [cortney09]
That is very good of you. In your way you are sharing with lots of people through that library. [GardenGerty]
You know, I never really thought of giving books to places where people actually wanted/needed them. I usually just give them to thrift stores. I might as well let a child or someone else who actually wants to read but doesn't have money to buy a book and give it to them. Thanks for the advice! :) [rubired]
Oh, I am glad that it gives you more ideas. There is nothing wrong with taking them to thrift shops, too. Thrift shops usually support needy groups, and having books there is also a way that people can read and own books economically. [GardenGerty]
i was just talking to one of my friends about giving a book back that he had borrowed...i loan books out but i always make sure i know who has them [bbmackids]
There are some I loan, but these are some I do not need at all and this girl did. [GardenGerty]
I keep alot of my books or let my friends read them too. Also joined a site where you can share books with each other, called bookcrossing. [tabyorky]
I have heard of that site, also of one called bookmooch. [GardenGerty]
Just before I moved house, I gave away hundreds of books. Some of them, I took to the charity shops but they were quite heavy and after a few trips I decided there had to be an easier way to get rid of them. I took a few Photos of them and advertised them on a few of the recycling sites so it wasn't long before they were all taken. A school teacher called and took most of them for the school library and others took some to either keep or to sell at car boot sales. I didn't mind as long as somebody had a use for them. [Alexandria37]
That was very brilliant of you to think of that. I am sure it saved your back quite a bit. I know the others appreciated them too. [GardenGerty]
I have donated some books in our school events. The books that been donated are distributed to orphanage institutions. There are lots of children who loves to learn but don't have the access in learning. Giving books is a good deed to do and helps lots of children who want to learn. [katkat]
Good for you to do that. It is true, kids want to learn, and it is hard when they are disadvantaged. [GardenGerty]
Hubby and I were doing some spring Cleaning a year or so ago. I had a large box of books. I called around to see who would want them. We gave them to a local nursing home. There were all sorts of books in this huge box. Something for the ladies and the men. [ersmommy1]
Very good, I hate it when people just throw books away. [GardenGerty]
I love reading and I love to give books away. I also love it when someone gives me a book. My grandmother just recently gave me two books to read. I buy books for my son and he gets a lot from my husband's stepmom too. I think that is great that you are giving books away to a group home. We have an orphanage not too far from our house. I wonder if they would take books. If so I would love to take them to them. I'll have to check into that. [sweetgirl_k1]
I hope it works out for you to share books with some people. It is a gift that truly does keep on giving. [GardenGerty]
that is great, maybe if there are younger kids in the group home, the teens can have storytelling sessions with them too...one of my dreams is to put up a network of reading centers nationwide in remote areas where children have no access to books. [magicslate]
You will perhaps find your dreams coming true. I hope so. [GardenGerty]
I would give books in this manner. I have given books to the schools, my nieces and nephews. I give books as gifts and I have also loaned alot of books out. I guess I had never really thought about before but here recently we have taken in a neighbor's child for a few weeks, the child is 11 and in the 4th grade she has flunked twice and cannot stand to read, I had never seen this before all of my children are readers have been since 1st grade. She thought my kids were weird because they would go into there rooms and instead of turning on the tv lay on the bed and read there books. She is now reading not enjoying all the time but it's getting better. I think it is so important for kids to read and if donating or giving books away makes one or more children find and interest in it then its a wonderful thing. God Bless and You are doing a Great thing. [minerc]
Taking in your neighbor's child is a great thing as well. Blessing to you. I am sure you are a good influence. [GardenGerty]
I think that giving books away is one of the most wonderful things that a person can do. I love reading all sorts of books and I am incredibly grateful when a book is given to me. I have given books away in the past [UK_Shree]
I know it is so much fun to give books, especially when they are appreciated. You never know whose heart or mind you will touch. [GardenGerty]
That sounds like a great opportunity for giving. I have really only given away books to the local salvation army or to friends. [brian_s]
Still, that is sharing. I just happen to know where mine are going this time. [GardenGerty]
I have not read all of the responses yet but I wanted to say that I give books away all the time. I love to read, it's one of my favorite things to do so over the course of my life, I have received and bought many books. I tend to keep the ones that I really like and that I think I would enjoy reading more than once but all of the others I either give away, sell or swap. I do not know if someone has mentioned it before but there is a site where you can swap books with other people. It's called www.bookcrossing.com I think giving books to those who are less fortunate is a wonderful thing to do. I think giving them to kids who are in group homes is a selfless thing and I think it will do more good than you can imagine. I know those kids are going through a really rough time in their lives and sometimes you need a good story to take you away from the real world. Bless you for doing that! [HeavenUnaware]
I have heard of bookcrossing and my son also uses a site called bookmooch. It is fun to share what you have read. [GardenGerty]
I have been known over the yrs. to give a lot of Books away. I Love buying New books from time to time when I see sales, or collect childrens books from places such as Freecycle to hand out during Birthdays, Christmas and other special occassions for them as well. I think it is very worthy to make sure that children continue to Love to read and do not replace the internet with that as well. Also when you can share a Book with others you know you are lending a helping hand to them in other ways as well. To see them smile and Thank You makes it all worth while for sure. [KrauseHome]
Absolutely! I love books too and love giving new and/or used books to others. When I was working I always knew someone who could use this or that book. It is as if books are living things that need to be blessing someone. Now that I am retired and less involved in the world, I also sell my used books rather than leave them to gather dust on a shelf. [youdontsay]
I think that is a wonderful way to re-home your books! It's also a thoughtful gesture. I always loved to read as a child and teen and the kids in these homes should be very grateful to get them! I love giving books as gifts. I do this often for all of my family members. I guess this is just natural for me since I've always loved to read and now I'm finding a huge love in freelance writing! [kareng]
I have always loved books and can remember when my cousins would write in them or tear a page. I would be furious. I hated that. [kareng]
I think thats a great idea! I usually keep mine for awhile. Sometimes I give them to friends. Others I donate to the local library or thrift shop. i love reading as well. [SuzyQ12]
Great ideas, if the library cannot use them, they can always sell them. Ours does that. [GardenGerty]
Books make very good gifts for children. They are very good supplement to exposure to a bigger world of nature and human beings. Meanwhile, they help cultivate their interest in knowledge. I also donate a lot of my books to people who need them so much. For the victims of natural disasters, books are as important as the urgently needed clothing. [zhuhuifen46]
You are right, books are a big part of surviving and of life. [GardenGerty]
I love to give books away! I don't get a chance to do it as much as I'd like, but I do manage to do it a couple times a year. Books are mankind's greatest invention, imo, and giving them to others has a great deal of meaning to me. Books are food for the brain! And regardless of anything else, I love to feed other brains as much as I love to feed my own. Especially the young. Normally, it's got nothing to do with charity for me. It's normally when I travel or get into discussions with people, normally those my own age (teens in other words), and they express a longing for that book or some other book. At flea markets, where I've mostly sold second hand books for years, I often find myself saying, "Ah, go ahead and take them." Or promising, "If they're still here you can have them. No really, it's no problem, I want you to have them." I know, I know. I'm a big softy, haha. But can you blame me? [xParanoiax]
*nods* This is very true. [xParanoiax]
As a matter of fact. My husband's company is doing a charity event and asked employees to donate books. I have a used book business, and some times I come across books that I can not sell on line for various reasons, I usually try and sell those at garage sales. But just today, I went through and gave my husband 500 books to bring to donate to his charity. I also send books to soldiers through booksforsoldiers.com from time to time. [ladym33]
How very awesome. I have quite a few books sitting around because my husband was around when the county jail decided to throw away its library. [GardenGerty]
i cant remember answering this so I'll answer again! I give books away when I'm finished them - providing they arent ones i bought to collect - i give them to my mom, grandma, cousins, sisters, friends. I donate them to the library. A friend of mine on the weekend gave me a box of about 100 books. I went through the books took the 10 out for my grandma 2 out for myself, offered them to my mom she took a couple out and the rest i took into the local hospital and donated them there. They were so pleased. [saundyl]
I wasnt starved for books - we went to the library alot my mom said i went through them too fast that unless it was a keeper we'd borrow them. [saundyl]
I give books away all the time. I like to encourage children to read. It is important for them to read and learn new things. Reading stretches the imagination. [royal52gens]
This has been my most favorite discussion, hearing from everyone who likes to share books. [GardenGerty]
yes i do. i love giving away books.. [katrhina23]
Books make wonderful gifts. They are rather unique and I love to write a little something and the date on the front cover. If it's really good I'll do a mini review. I especially love to give Bibles to those who I feel would enjoy one. [PrarieStyle]
You have a nice way of personalizing and commemorating the gift. [GardenGerty]
My second child loves book as a gift. My youngest is fond of storytelling. My first son first toy is a set of 10volume Bible Story by Arthur Maxwell. Whenever I need to give a gift, I gave them books. Books are treasure! One time, I attended a wedding, I gave the new couple a book, "Complete Marriage" by Nancy Vanfelt. If you are looking for a new book for yourself, visit...www.medfoodpedia.com [leomermarie]
What a thoughtful gift giver. Looks like an interesting site, as well. [GardenGerty]
I think that it is a cool way to give books away! In my country, our libraries have boxes for people who wish to give their books away, so that others could read them. [LCHBheart]
Great way to recycle books to where they are needed. [GardenGerty]
There is a small-library in my college in which all the books are donated by our teachers.The small--library is one of my favorite place to go in my spare time. I can not only rent book but aslo sharing things with the students and teachers. [hlldelight]
That sounds like a beautiful place to spend time. [GardenGerty]
I cannot remember giving away books as presents. My parents told me to keep those books because they still can be used for future references. We have some huge cabinets at home where old and new books are stored, some are torn already and are covered with dusts. I love books, and I want to share them to my special friends but I have the tendency to buy other things rather than books in giving away presents. [galileo2008]
Books take up lots of room when we store them, but it is nice to use them over again. [GardenGerty]