Ethical Gifts For Book Lovers (That Aren't Books!)
Trying to find a Christmas gift for your bibliophile family member, friend or loved one can be tricky. The first thing that comes to mind is usually a book, but what if they’ve read it before? They’re quite picky, so what if it’s not their genre?
A much easier approach is to give a unique, thoughtful gift that screams ‘bookworm’ without being dangerously specific. If you can help people and the planet at the same time, even better! They’ll get an even warmer feeling when they cosy up with a good read and some bookish paraphernalia.
To get you started, here are 7 ethical gift ideas for book lovers:
Independent Bookshop Vouchers
A book voucher is a fantastic way to give fussy readers freedom of choice. The Bookshop is an online bookshop with a mission to financially support local, independent bookshops. They offer digital gift cards that are sent to the recipient via email either instantly or on a scheduled date.
2. Charity gifts that support literacy
In the Christmas spirit of giving, a charity gift will pass their love of reading on to others. I think the Reverse Book Tokens from Book Aid International is a fantastic idea! Choose the number of books you would like to send to those in need (it’s only £2 per book) and get a personalised gift certificate to show your loved one the impact made.
3. Book-themed jewellery
There is some gorgeous book-themed jewellery out there, which would make a unique gift. Not On The High Street, a marketplace for over 5,000 small businesses, have lots of gorgeous book-themed jewellery on offer!
Our favourites are…
This Silver Banner Book Locket Necklace (with a personalised folded message inside!)
4. Bookish Homeware for every reading nook
Bookish vibes help make any space more homely, from a student flat to a grandparent’s bungalow. Supporting Small Businesses, Not On The High Street has lots of gorgeous options to make your loved ones home even more bookish.
Our favourites are…
5. Clothing for Book Lovers
Give them a comfy gift perfect for snuggling up with a good book! Basically, anything from The Literary Emporium is a great choice. All their clothing is produced in WRAP accredited factories, plus the company is based in Somerset so Bristol and Bath Girls can support a local business too!
I love their ‘Nolite te Bastardes Carborundorum’ Handmaid’s Tale-inspired sweatshirt. They also have a range of charity T-shirts with 10% of proceeds donated to worthy causes, from Mind to Action Aid.
6. Tote Bags for Book Lovers
I was going to put tote bags under ‘clothing’, but let’s be honest, they’re such a bookish staple that they deserve a category all of their own! Penguin Books sell literary tote bags that replicate the cover of your loved one’s favourite book.
I also really like the range from Bookishly, which you can get via Not On The High Street. The empowering feminist slogan tote bags make particularly great gifts for girlfriends!
7. Book-Themed Stationery
I would be delighted if someone gave me the Book Lover Gifts Reading Journal, which is made from recycled paper... while their cute pencil sets would make ideal gifts for bookish students, teachers or artists.
For this guide, we've prioritised useful gifts, mission-led businesses, independent businesses, pre-loved options, responsibly sourced materials and products with a clear social or environmental benefit.
Frequently Asked Questions from our Community
What is a good sustainable gift for a book lover?
Second-hand books, independent bookshop vouchers, reusable book sleeves, recycled-paper journals and handmade bookmarks can all make thoughtful lower-waste gifts for readers.
What can I buy a book lover who already has lots of books?
Choose something that improves their reading experience rather than another novel, such as a book sleeve, reading journal, literary puzzle, bookmark, personalised library stamp or bookshop voucher.
Are second-hand books good gifts?
Absolutely. A beautiful vintage edition, an out-of-print title or a second-hand copy with personal significance can feel more thoughtful than buying new.
What are inexpensive ethical gifts for readers?
Bookmarks, charity donations, second-hand books and recycled stationery can all work well for smaller budgets.
