Besides being Valentine’s Day, February 14th is also International Book Giving Day. The mission of International Book Giving Day is to get new, used, or borrowed books in the hands of as many kids as possible.

Three simple ways you can get involved with International Book Giving Day:

1. Give a Book to a Friend or Relative
Is there a child in your life who would enjoy receiving a book on February 14th? In lieu of or in addition to a card or box of chocolates, choose a good book from a bookstore or public library. Do not underestimate the value of a library book lovingly selected and wrapped in pretty paper.

2. Donate a Book(s)
Wrap up a box of children’s books that your kids have outgrown and get them in the hands of children who could really use a book or two. Donate your books to your local second hand store, library, children’s hospital, or shelter. Alternatively, donate your books to an organization working internationally to get books in the hands of kids.

• Books for Africa (US)
• The Book Bus (UK)
• Pelican Post (UK)

3. Leave a Book in a Waiting Room or Lobby.
Choose a waiting room where kids are stuck waiting and there are few to no good books available. Purchase a good book, and deposit your book covertly or overtly in your waiting room of choice. The goal here is to spread the love of reading to kids, so choose a fun book, nothing controversial.

Please, help get new, used, or borrowed books in the hands of as many kids as possible this February. Spread the word:

• Like International Book Giving Day’s Facebook page.
• Follow on Twitter: @bookgivingday
• Encourage others in your community to participate.
• If you have a website, post the International Book Giving Day badge above on your site.