It’s the holiday season -- a time of year when we often think about buying gifts for those special people in our lives. Many lifelong readers, myself included, can't help but incorporate books into their gift-giving. I am the aunt or friend who always gives a book, because it is truly something that I enjoy. I love thinking about my family and friends and trying to figure out the perfect book for them.
Sometimes, I know the perfect book instantly (like dance books for my dance-obsessed niece), but more it's more often that I don't know the right gift. If this happens to you too, I suggest asking questions like, “What do you enjoy reading?” and “What’s the last book that you read and what did you like about it?”
Asking about favorite TV shows or movies can also be a great conversation starter and another way to figure out what someone may like to read. Talking about their favorite TV show, movie or even video game can trigger them to talk about different characters and the reasons that they like or relate to them.
Another way to figure out the perfect holiday gift is to stop by your neighborhood Omaha Public Library branch and check out some of the fantastic book displays or talk to the awesome, knowledgeable library staff.
If you are feeling the time-crunch with the holidays quickly approaching, check out our website to request a custom reading list. Each request is sent to a trained group of library staff who create a customized list based on what books you are in the mood for and what books you’ve enjoyed in the past. Custom reading lists are available for all ages. You can also check out Omaha Public Library’s Top Shelf, which compiles library staff’s favorite books of 2018 into an easy-to-browse and filter resource.
Tablets and eReaders are great gifts for those who prefer digital content. Go a step further and help your friends and family get set up to download digital content including ebooks, digital audiobooks, free music and digital magazines from Omaha Public Library using Libby, Freegal , Tumblebooks and Flipster, opens a new window.
Whatever your gift giving style, Omaha Public Library is here to help.
Like what you just read? Kris is a member of OPL's Well Read Collective, opens a new window, which strives to help patrons discover new books, genres and authors. Find more of Kris's posts, opens a new window.
Add a comment to: Holiday Book-Giving Tips