Library books have pretty distinguishable look. They have a sticker, usually with a bar code these days, and a stamp somewhere labeling that the book belongs to the library. They sometimes even have a plastic cover to protect the dust jacket.
Most of us have personal libraries. Why not follow the library’s example? As our personal collections continue to grow, we need a way to keep track of all of them, to “mark our territory” so to speak, and to get organized so we can feel comfortable letting friends borrow our books.
1. Write your name
This isn’t my favorite option honestly, but then again, I have horrible handwriting. My husband has prettier handwriting than I do!
If your book has chicken scratch written in the front of the book, I don’t think it clearly lets people (i.e., borrowers) know you’re serious about maintaining your books and keeping stains off them. After all you took a ballpoint pen and “scratched” the book, so why would it matter that they put a slight coffee stain on it, right? Send them a message that your book needs to return clean and cared for.
But then again, if you have a beautiful signature or if you can dress up your writing, go ahead.
Source: Pinterest
2. Emboss it
With this embosser, your books will look like they came from a fancy collection. It look so official!
Source: Buzzfeed
3. Catalog it
If you’re the nostalgic type, you could catalog your books on notecards, creating your own card catalog.
Source: Amazon
Calm down, techies. You don’t have to go completely analog if you don’t want to. There are great apps for cataloging your personal library like iBookshelf, libib, and Home Library.
4. Stamp it
As far as stamps go, you have several attractive options: some customized, some with space for you to sign your name, and more. Choose your favorite.
Source: Etsy
5. Go old school
One fun, classic way to label a book and remind your friend that they borrowed it is using an old-school library kit for your books with a cute stamp. Librarian’s glasses not included.
Source: Amazon
6. Take a picture
If you tend to forget who borrows your books or don’t want to physically mark your book territory, start taking pictures of the person holding the book he or she is going to borrow. For added measure, you could also have a paper with the date on it. That way you can send the picture to them to not-so-subtly remind them that they’ve had your book for three months, and you’re not going to let them forget it. Give it back already!
Source: Pinterest
How do you mark books in your personal library?
YouTube Channel: Roman Roads Media
Featured image via Finding Time To Write
