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Let’s be honest, most book lovers don’t need another book. Shocking, right? I know, I know. As a lifelong bookworm myself, it almost feels sacrilegious to say. But here’s the truth: if you’re shopping for someone who’s practically made their home into a library (like me), you’ll probably hear something like, “I have a massive TBR already,” or “I’m trying to read what I already own before I buy more.” (Ha! Good luck with that.) So what do you gift the bibliophile who technically has enough books…?
That’s where this Gift Guide for the Bookworm Who Has Enough Books comes in handy. I’ve curated a list of cozy, creative, and totally bookish gift ideas that still celebrate their love for literature, without adding to their already towering pile of unread novels.
These are gifts I’ve given, received, or added to my own wishlist. Let’s dive in.
Table of Contents
Book Lamps That Look Like… Books?! Yes, Please.
Okay, this one is pure magic. If you haven’t seen a book lamp that looks like an open book, prepare to fall in love.
These clever little lamps open like a hardcover book, and when you do, they light up, casting a soft, warm glow that’s perfect for late-night reading sessions. Some even fold 360 degrees and can be propped up like a fan, creating the most charming, ambient light. They’re rechargeable, portable, and honestly? Just downright cool.
I got one for my nightstand last winter, and it changed my entire bedtime routine. Instead of harsh overhead lighting, I open my book lamp, crawl under a fuzzy blanket, and read in this soft glow that feels like something out of a fairy tale.
They make amazing gifts for readers who love design, mood lighting, or anything a little bit magical. Plus, they’re functional and decorative, what more could a bookworm want?
Bookish Candles: Because Reading Should Smell Like Magic
There’s something about lighting a candle before settling into a book that makes the whole experience feel sacred. I keep a small stash of literary-themed candles on my bookshelf, and each one has its own “book mood.”
I once gifted a friend a “Bookshop” candle with a note that said, “For when you can’t get to your favorite bookshop, bring it home instead.” She lit it that night while reading The Night Circus and texted me: “This candle smells like i’m reading in a cozy bookshop.”
Candles may not be books, but they set the scene.
Blind Date With a Book Boxes: Still Technically a Book, But With a Twist
Okay, so maybe I did sneak one bookish option into this list, but hear me out. Blind date with a book boxes are different. They aren’t just books; they’re experiences.
You don’t know what book you’re getting until you unwrap it. Usually, the book is wrapped in kraft paper with a few teaser phrases written on the front. Something like:
✨ Magical realism
💔 Family secrets
🌲 Pacific Northwest setting
💫 Hauntingly lyrical prose
Opening one feels like Christmas morning, but with literary mystery. Some boxes even include extras like tea, bookmarks, stickers, or snacks. It’s not just about the book, it’s about the moment.
I’ve ordered a few from Amazon, small Etsy shops and one from a subscription service The Book Drop. They’re perfect when you want the joy of getting a book, minus the analysis paralysis of choosing one, you can pick the genre and the rest is a surprise.
Want to go DIY? Wrap a favorite book in brown paper and write three intriguing clues. Add a handwritten note about why you loved it. Done.
Literary Quote Prints: Pretty Words for Their Walls
Bookworms don’t just love stories, we love language. A single sentence can gut us, inspire us, or make us laugh-snort in public. So, why not give the gift of a quote they can see every day?
Here’s what I’ve got framed in my office:
“I have always imagined that Paradise will be a kind of library.” – Jorge Luis Borges
And in my bedroom:
“She is too fond of books, and it has turned her brain.” – Louisa May Alcott
I’ve found some stunning literary prints on Amazon and Etsy, many of them designed with delicate typewriter fonts, watercolor backgrounds, or vintage-style illustrations. Some are minimalist, some look like they belong in an old-world study, and some are playful and colorful.
Gift tip: Pair a print with a beautiful wooden or gold frame. It instantly turns a simple quote into a statement piece.
Cozy Reading Socks: Never Underestimate the Power of Warm Feet
Look, I don’t care how many books you own, if your toes are cold, you’re not going to enjoy your reading session. Ask me how I know.
Enter: cozy reading socks. They might not be literary in nature, but they’re an essential part of any book lover’s uniform. Slouchy, fleece-lined, knit, or novelty socks with book patterns, yes, please.
Some of my favorites?
- “I Read Banned Books” socks – Iconic. Comfy. Conversation starters.
- “Do not disturb- Currently Reading” socks – These scream introverted weekend.
- Barefoot Dreams socks – Not technically bookish, but they feel like a warm hug for your feet. Worth every penny.
I keep a basket of “reading socks” by my bed. It’s like my little ritual, put on the socks, make tea, light a candle, open book. If your gift recipient has a similar vibe, trust me: you can’t go wrong here.
Other Thoughtful Gift Ideas for Bookworms Who “Have Everything”
Still stuck? Don’t worry, I’ve got more.
Here’s a lightning round of bookish gift ideas that I’ve loved or gifted over the years:
1. Bookish Enamel Pins
Little flair for their jacket, tote, or backpack. Look for ones that say things like:
- “I’d rather be reading”
- “Book Dragon”
- Tiny open books, typewriters, or favorite literary characters
2. Custom Book Embossers
For the reader who lends books but wants them back. These let them stamp “From the Library of Jane Smith” on the inside cover.
I got one for a friend who always jokes that she “runs an unofficial lending library.” She loved it. Then she stamped every book she owns.
3. Personalized Bookplate Stickers
A similar idea, but a bit more decorative. You can find ones with watercolor art, animals, or fantasy themes to put in the book covers.
4. Reading Journals
Notebooks designed specifically to track what they read, what they loved, and what they want to read next. Some are minimalist with just title/author/date, and others include rating systems, quotes, and review sections.
Bonus points: add a cute pen and washi tape set.
5. Book-Themed Mugs
You can’t go wrong with a big mug that says “Go away, I’m reading” or “One more chapter.” Especially if you include their favorite tea or hot chocolate mix.
Gift Wins (and Fails)
The Win: A Literary Care Package
One year, I made a “reading night kit” for my sister. She was in a stressful job and hadn’t read for fun in ages. I filled a box with:
- A paperback she’d mentioned months before
- A soft blanket
- A “Reading in Progress” candle
- A tea sampler
- Fuzzy socks
- A handwritten note that said, “You deserve a quiet night to escape.”
She said it was the most thoughtful gift she’d received in years.
The Fail: The “Duplicate Disaster”
Another year, I gave a friend a new release I was sure she didn’t have yet. Surprise! She’d pre-ordered it months before. It was a sweet gesture, but… lesson learned.
Now I skip trying to guess what book someone wants and go for the vibe instead. Gifts that enhance their reading life are always appreciated.
Bookish Gifts Are About the Experience
At the end of the day, the best gifts for bookworms aren’t just about books. They’re about creating an experience, a moment of calm, joy, or wonder that enhances their love of reading.
Books themselves may be sacred, but the rituals we build around them? Those are the things we remember.
So the next time you’re stuck trying to find a gift for the reader who has everything, ask yourself:
- Can I make their reading time cozier?
- Can I bring a little literary magic into their home?
- Can I give them a smile, a laugh, or a moment of calm?
Because those are the real gifts.
What’s your go-to gift for the book lover in your life (or for yourself)? Drop your favorites in the comments. let’s build the ultimate bookish wishlist together.
And if you’re still not sure what to pick, bookmark this Gift Guide for the Bookworm Who Has Enough Books for the next holiday, birthday, or just-because day. Because trust me, even if we say we don’t need more books, we always need something to go with them.
With love,
Bri & Cat
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