If you’ve ever found yourself staring at a shelf of books you no longer need or wishing you had something new to read without spending extra money, Birkbeck has the perfect solution for you! Thanks to the efforts of our Students’ Union Chairman and Education Lead, William Sarenden, the brand-new Birkbeck Book Swap initiative is now up and running.
What started as a simple idea, a single IKEA bookshelf and a call out to students, has grown into two purpose built book swap stations, now proudly placed in Birkbeck Central and Malet Street.This project was created with students in mind, offering a free, accessible, and sustainable way to share books, discover new reads, and reduce waste. With the rising cost of living, small initiatives like this make a big difference, allowing students to swap books without spending a penny while also fostering a greater sense of community on campus.
How It Works:
🔄 Leave a Book – Donate any books you no longer need.
🔍 Find a New Read – Browse the shelves and pick something that interests you.
🏠 Take it Home – Enjoy your book for free!
🌱 Support Sustainability – Give books a second life and reduce waste.
This initiative proves that small changes can have a big impact. By swapping books instead of buying new ones, we’re not only saving money but also promoting sustainability and encouraging a culture of shared learning. So, next time you’re on campus, drop by the book swap, donate a book, and pick up something new to read! Whether it’s a novel, a textbook, or a hidden gem, there’s something for everyone.
Let’s keep the shelves full and the pages turning!