Because stories and ideas are meant to be shared.
International Book Giving Day, marked each year on 14 February, is a gentle reminder that books are one of the most meaningful gifts we can give.
Whether it’s a brand-new picture book, a much-loved paperback, or a surprise novel slipped onto a friend’s doorstep, the day is all about spreading the joy of reading – without pressure, price tags, or pretence.
Why book giving matters
A book can educate, comfort, distract, inspire, or simply offer a few quiet minutes away from the world. For children especially, receiving a book can spark a lifelong love of reading. For adults, it can feel like being truly seen – “I thought you’d like this.”
International Book Giving Day encourages us to think beyond ourselves and remember that not everyone has easy access to books at home.
Simple ways to take part
You don’t need to do anything elaborate. Small gestures are very much the point:
Gift a book to a child – a new title or a gently used favourite
Donate books to schools, libraries, food banks, or charities such as Book Aid International https://bookaid.org
Leave a book somewhere public with a note inviting someone to enjoy it
Post a book to a friend “just because”
Share a recommendation on social media and encourage others to do the same
Even one book can make a difference.
A lovely excuse to talk about reading
For book lovers, the day is also a chance to celebrate stories and ideas themselves. It’s a great prompt to revisit childhood favourites, support local bookshops, or finally pass on that novel you couldn’t stop talking about.
At That’s Books and More, we love anything that puts books into more hands and more homes. International Book Giving Day isn’t about grand gestures – it’s about kindness, connection, and the quiet magic of a good read finding the right reader.
So if you’re looking for a thoughtful way to mark the day, skip the chocolates and share a story instead.
