It’s that time of year again when we begin to think about what makes a great gift. Naturally, I think a book is the perfect gift! You don’t have to spend a lot of money to share the joy of reading. You can pass books along in so many meaningful ways!
Here are some of my tips to find and share books for the giving season. These are all great ways to add fun titles to your classroom library:
Garage Sales - A perfect spot to find children’s books. Prices can vary, and many times there is even a free box, where I always head first! Your best bet is to search for neighborhood-wide garage sales so you can visit a large number in the same area. Round up your teacher friends, bring a hot mug of cofffee, and make a morning out of it! My friend Tracey, who I often run into at estate sales while looking for books, reminded that she has a friend who picks up books to keep in her classroom to give away as prizes. I love this idea!
Resale Shops - You can find inexpensive books at the Goodwill and children’s consignment stores.
Library Sales - Did you know that Public libraries receive book donations on a regular basis? They are usually saved for book sales and the money they raise goes back into supporting your public library - truly a win/win. The majority of these sales are sponsored by Friends of the Library volunteer groups. You will typically find books priced under a $1. Contact your local library to find out when they will hold their next sale. You can also check Book Sale Finder to find sales in your state.
Free Libraries - So many neighborhoods have a “Little Free Library” now, so think about borrowing a book and also giving a book too. Remember, you can borrow a book, but you can get to keep the ideas!
Cleaning out your own bookshelf - If you’re like me you have a lot of books. Sometimes taking a treasured book and lending it or even giving it, can be one of the most special gift of all.
My friend Tracey has a great saying that I think sums up the joy of giving a book, “Those of us who love books want everyone to love them.”
Enjoy my video story “The Gift of the Magi” that also shares a beautiful message of what giving really means.
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