How to Create a Holiday Book Exchange Tradition

For book lovers, there’s no better way to celebrate than by starting a holiday book exchange tradition with friends, family, or your community. It’s a fun, creative way to share the gift of stories while deepening connections with those around you. Here’s how to bring the magic of reading into your holiday celebrations.

Step 1: Decide on the Format

There are many ways to organize a holiday book exchange. Choose the one that best fits your group:

• Secret Santa Book Exchange: Assign each participant a person to gift a book to, keeping the giver’s identity a surprise.

• Themed Exchange: Pick a specific genre or theme, such as “holiday stories,” “travel adventures,” or “classics everyone should read.”

• White Elephant Book Swap: Each person brings a wrapped book, and participants take turns choosing a book or “stealing” one that’s already been picked.

• Book Advent Calendar: Share books throughout the holiday season, giving or exchanging one each day leading up to Christmas.

Step 2: Set the Guidelines

Clear guidelines ensure everyone is on the same page:

• Budget: Decide on a price range for books to keep things fair and affordable.

• Condition: Specify whether books can be used, new, or either. A well-loved copy of a favorite book can be just as special as a new one.

• Content: Make sure everyone knows the theme or genre, if applicable, and consider asking participants to note preferences or genres they’d rather avoid.

Step 3: Add a Personal Touch

To make the exchange more meaningful, encourage participants to include a note or short message with their book. Share why they chose the book, how it impacted them, or what they hope the recipient will enjoy about it.

Step 4: Plan the Exchange Event

Turn the book exchange into a festive gathering:

• In-Person Gathering: Host a cozy evening with hot cocoa, holiday treats, and a fireplace (real or virtual). Wrap the books, exchange them, and enjoy chatting about your literary picks.

• Virtual Exchange: If participants are spread out, consider a virtual swap. Mail books ahead of time and host a video call to unwrap them together.

• At the Bookstore: Partner with your local bookstore to host the exchange. This way, participants can browse for books and support local businesses while celebrating together.

Step 5: Spread the Tradition

Once you’ve established your book exchange tradition, invite others to join in. Share your experience on social media or encourage coworkers, book clubs, or neighbors to start their own exchanges.

A holiday book exchange isn’t just about giving and receiving; it’s about fostering a love of reading, building community, and creating memories that last long after the holidays are over.

This year, drop by the Friends of the Boca Raton Public Library to find the perfect book to bring you and your loved ones closer together. Start your own book exchange tradition and watch the joy of reading light up the season!