There was a time when I thought I'll never ever part with any of my books. That, for as long as I live, I'll keep every single book I've ever bought. Every single one. Have I stuck to my book pact? I'm afraid I haven't. Over the past few years I've donated many of my books. You might ask, dear reader, what brought the change of heart? More like change of space - getting customised shelves made is very expensive these days.
But more than the cost, I think it was the very act of hoarding books which lost its appeal. Why collect books which a) I didn't plan to re-read, b) didn't plan to read at all or c) disliked? Why not give them away to new readers who might actually enjoy both reading and owning the book? With this noble thought in mind, I donated many books to a couple of bookstores. I also wrote little notes in them (mostly about my thoughts/feelings about the story or characters) and an email address asking the new owner to write and tell me what he/she felt about the book. Considering I didn't receive a single email, I have a bad feeling that those books are rotting in the dusty shelves of the book stores. Or maybe whoever found the notes assumed that this was a desperate attempt at 'friendship' and ignored them.
So I decided to use a more personalised approach. I posted a list of books on my blog, asked people to write in if they wanted a title and promised to send over the books via courier. To my surprise (read: shock), a few readers reached out. I was overjoyed! Somebody had actually read the blog and asked for a book! And not just that, these books were going to people who wanted them. It might sound very strange (and creepy) but it was a very comforting thought that my books will be in good hands.
After sending out four books, I've made this book donation drive a regular feature on the blog. If you're interested in getting hold of some titles, just click on the Books 4 U tab on the homepage of my blog and you'll be directed to the book list. Then all you need to do is follow the instructions and I'll send the book to you. Simple.
Well.....what are you waiting for?
hmm.. try again :P
ReplyDeleteHi Farheen: It is obvious that you are a book lover and a big hearted person. Wish you good luck on your venture. I will watch out for your book when it is published.
ReplyDeleteI came across your blog researching Pakistani libraries for my blog: librariesofourlives.wordpress.com.
The goal of the project is to capture stories of libraries today in the voices of their users, before the institution is transformed by digitization. Since this is a global project, with writers from different countries, I am always on the look out for folks who love books and reading and may be interested to share the story of their favorite library. Please check out the blog. I 'd be honored if you choose to share a story. I know so little about libraries in Pakistan and am very interested, as I'm sure will the readers.
Hi there!
ReplyDeleteThis is khuram imtiaz, the owner of www.braindirector.com. I just happened to visit your blog and having seen your interest in books, i would like to invite you to work with www.braindirector.com
If you are interested, just send an email out to me at khuram@doctor.com