Wednesday, May 23, 2012

What is a bookplate and why would I buy one?

People ask me when I tell them I sell bookplates, "What's a bookplate?" It sounds like some technical piece of equipment used in the making of books, doesn't it?

It's actually just a simple piece of paper with a design on it used to signify who owns a book. These days they usually come with a self-adhesive backing.

That's the short description. People also want to know why they'd want to stick a label inside a book. Sometimes they want to know what bookplate to buy for someone.

There is a little more explanation about what a bookplate is - what they are for, why people use them, how to select a bookplate, to personalize or not and what to do with a bookplate if you get one - so that's what I'm hoping to do here!

 Why give bookplates? Here are ten reasons...I'm sure there are more...
  • Bookplates encourage reading - children love stickers with their names on them - give a bookplate along with a new book!
  • Bookplates are an inexpensive gift
  • Bookplates are thoughtful gifts, especially if you select well
  • Bookplates will last for a long time - everytime someone sees the bookplate, they'll remember you!
  • Bookplates can be very personal - if you have them personalized
  • Bookplates remind borrowers to return books - so you're helping someone loan books, and helping them get them back!
  • Bookplates identify ownership - so you may be helping roommates avoid arguments or pack up with ease.
  • Bookplates identify ownership - so you may be helping a new couple with new names identify ownership of new books they buy together!
  • Bookplates leave memories - donate a book to a library, a book in honor of a teacher, a book in memory of a loved one -- leave memories!
  • Bookplates make a nice thank you - give a bookplate as a thank you for something nice someone has done - better yet, put it inside a book and give it to the person. 

No comments:

Post a Comment