Are you looking for the perfect gift for the book lover you know? Is it for Valentine’s Day (in advance), their birthday, or Christmas? Or maybe you’re treating yourself? The best bookish gifts don’t have to be books themselves, which can be expensive or hard to find. For the bookish gift ideas listed here, you can easily shop for them online, get them in bookstores close to you, or simply DIY.
Here’s a list of awesome, budget-friendly gift options for bookworms!
1. Bookish Mugs
Bookish Mug | Source: Bookishly
A great book and a hot cup of coffee or tea; what more could a reader want? Bookish mugs are one of the most popular bookish gifts and they’re super easy to find online, the most popular places being Etsy bookish gifts and Amazon.
If you’re not really feeling the (online) shopping vibe, you can easily DIY your own mug.
Just get a plain mug, some permanent markers, and your favourite literary quote. Boom. A personalized bookish gift that any reader would love.
2. Bookmarks
What’s a book without a bookmark? (Well, technically, it’s a book but let’s not get technical.) A good reader knows it’s basically a crime to dog-ear your book pages, so the best kit to have while reading is a bookmark.
Bookmark | Source: MJK Creations
Usually, when you buy books from a store, you get free bookmarks in accompaniment. For instance, here’s a bookmark I got when I purchased some books from Parresia Bookstore in Lagos.
My Bookmark from Parresia Bookstores
You can easily buy bookmarks (standalone), if you don’t want to have to buy a book first. Or better still, create a handmade bookmark. It is one of those small bookish gifts that can make a big impact, mainly because of the personal touch it adds. Plus, it’s a thoughtful, easy-to-get and even easier-to-make gift that every book lover can use. To make a DIY bookmark, you can use craft paper or even fabric.
3. Literary Quote Prints
A Framed Quote Print | Source: Book Quote Decor
This is a simple but meaningful gift for a reader. Literary quote prints are a great way to turn their love of books into home decor. You can easily create these prints on your own using tools like Canva or even just by printing from your home computer. Plus, framing them is simple and adds that personal touch.
4. Book Covers
You’ve been wrapping your notebooks and textbooks since like forever, so why not extend this love and protection to a book lover? You can easily make fabric covers or paper versions that can be customized with quotes or designs.
Canvas Book Covers | Source: Amazon
This makes a great gift for any reader who treasures their books and wants to keep them in pristine condition.
5. Bookish Tote Bag
Tote bags are so popular nowadays, and every reader needs a good tote bag, for books, groceries, etc.
Bookish Tote Bag | Source: Book Lovers Gift
You can buy ready-made bookish tote bags, but if you’re up for it, you can also DIY one by painting a fun book quote or design on a plain tote bag. Simple, practical, and totally bookish.
6. Reading Nook Essentials
Help your reader friend create the best cosy reading nook with little touches like fairy lights, throw blankets, pillows, etc.
Reading Nook Essentials | Source: Homes & Gardens
If you’re looking for bookish gifts that go the extra mile, you can even DIY a small bookshelf or bookshelf-inspired decor. No matter what, turning a space into a reading paradise is a gift that keeps on giving.
7. Book-Themed Journals
Some readers love to jot down their thoughts about their latest read, or even anything in particular, so yes, getting them a book-themed journal is the perfect gift.
Book Bullet Journal | Source: Masha Plans
You can also DIY this gift by grabbing a plain notebook and decorating it with bookish quotes or designs. It’s a thoughtful and creative way to help your reader keep track of their favourite books and characters.
Bonus: Books!
Okay, I know, I said your gifts don’t have to be books, but let’s be real, there’s no such thing as too many books for a true bookworm. It’s like giving candy to a sweet tooth; it always hits the spot. Here are some fun, creative ways to gift books without just tossing a novel in a gift bag:
8. A Reading Subscription
Where I come from, books aren’t the easiest to get your hands on. Libraries are almost non-existent, bookshops are almost inaccessible to the average reader, and “how to download free PDF books” is one of the most searched terms on Google because books are really expensive. Emphasis on “really expensive”.
That’s why a reading subscription is a lifesaver for book lovers. I use Everand, for instance. It’s a platform that lets readers devour as many e-books as they want; online or offline, for a small monthly fee.
My Everand Dashboard
It’s like an all-you-can-read buffet but without the guilt. Platforms like these make a thoughtful, practical gift, especially for readers in places where physical books are hard to come by.
9. Book Bouquet
Why settle for flowers when you can create a bouquet of books?
Book Bouquet | Source: Angel’s Flowers
You can tie them together with ribbon and add a personal note for that extra flair. Bonus points if the books are themed, like poetry books for a romantic vibe or thrillers for someone who loves suspense.
10. Pre-Ordered Books or Special Editions
This is one bookish gift idea I’ve been seeing lately that screams thoughtfulness. Pre-ordering an upcoming release by an author they love or snagging a limited-edition copy of their favourite book.
Pre-order Flyer Example | Source: The Cable
Imagine their excitement when they receive a book they’ve been anticipating before anyone else or a collector’s edition with gorgeous illustrations, signed pages, or extra content. It’s a next-level way to show you care about their reading passion.
Which One of the Bookish Gift Ideas Do You Like?
There you have it; the 10 best bookish gift ideas that are easy to buy, easy to craft, perfect for any occasion, and guaranteed to make any bookworm’s day. If you loved the ideas listed here, why not share this article with other book lovers? Happy gift-giving, and happy reading!
FAQs: Best Bookish Gift Ideas for Readers (Not Books!)
Is it a good idea to give a book as a gift?
Yes, books make thoughtful and personal gifts, especially if they align with the recipient’s interests or favourite genres.
What book can I gift my best friend?
Choose a book that reflects your shared memories, their interests, or a motivational or uplifting book. You can also gift your best friend a novel by their favourite author.
What to gift a book lover except books?
Gifts like literary-themed mugs, bookmarks, book sleeves, bookish candles, subscription services, or tote bags are great alternatives to gifting a book lover books.
What is a person who loves books called?
A person who loves books is called a bibliophile, or a bookworm.
How to present a book as a gift?
Wrap the book in decorative paper or a reusable fabric wrap, and also add a personal note or bookmark inside.
What does a book symbolize as a gift?
A book symbolizes knowledge, thoughtfulness, and the sharing of ideas or emotions.
How to wrap a book gift?
Use wrapping paper or fabric to neatly cover the gift, secure it with tape or ribbon, and add a personal touch like a gift tag or bow.
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