Books take up space. They often sit on our shelves, waiting for the right moment to be opened. In a digital world full of distractions, many books gather dust without being read. The Japanese term "tsundoku" captures this habit of accumulating unread reading material.

A refreshing alternative is the book sharing movement, where public boxes allow people to give and take books for free. Unlike online recommendations, these mini libraries bring back the joy of serendipitous discoveries, akin to browsing shelves at a traditional library. Though you’re more likely to find popular titles than niche reads, it’s a wonderful way to explore new authors and topics.

Moreover, participating in book sharing builds a sense of community. Users connect with each other and with the caretakers who maintain these boxes, ensuring a steady supply of books.

Books can have many lives and bring joy to numerous readers. Next time you spot a little library, stop by. If you can’t find one, consider creating one—whether at work, school, or in your neighborhood.