Whether you’re a casual reader or a big reader, knowing what to do with your pre-loved books can be overwhelming.
The second-hand book market has many opportunities for readers to give their pre-loved books a new home, including community donations and book swaps.
Giving to and purchasing from the second-hand book market comes with many perks. Not only is it cost-effective, but it is also a way of sustainable living.
As each used book is purchased, it relieves some of the demand for new copies, cutting back on overconsumption.
Ways to Re‑home Your Books Locally
So, where can you start in your local community?
Donations
Lifeline hosts the community favourite Lifeline Bookfest across Queensland each year, relying on donations to keep a fresh rotation of books during the week-long events.
Running in Brisbane since 1987, Lifeline retail business manager & Brisbane Bookfest event coordinator, Angela Clark, said Bookfest was an opportunity to make a meaningful impact while enjoying a vibrant community event.
Books can be donated to a local Lifeline shop or warehouse. It is essential to ring beforehand to ensure the shop has enough room to accommodate.
Street libraries
For adventure lovers, street libraries are for you.
Located at community centres and people’s homes, these little libraries operate on a ‘take a book, give a book, share a book’ mantra.
With the ability to hold between 20 and 40 books, visitors are able to donate as many books as will fit and take home as many books as they wish for free.
Find your closest street libraries.
Second-hand book trading
Redcliffe’s The Book Bucket offers a unique second-hand book trading experience.
Simply bring in books already purchased from The Book Bucket or bring in your own to trade for in-store credit.
Offering affordable used book prices, owners Alea and Andrew Cadzow said their affordability was a highlight.
“The ability to bring such a range of continually changing, diverse selection of quality books to our readers is exciting,” they said.
“By trading heavily, we always have fresh and diverse books for all to select from.”
They are also located at Bribie Island, Caloundra and Maroochydore.
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