This past Sunday in a cozy little corner along the Haley corridor, a small group of introverts met to read. The first annual holiday book exchange and silent book club was hosted by Literally Amazing S.B. and Loud Flower Art Co . to celebrate their passion for community and literature.
The group of mostly women warmed up by congregating around the book exchange table. “I think a book exchange is the essence of community,” said Michaela McGinnis, the organizer behind Literally Amazing S.B . Everyone, it seemed, wanted to talk about their books. After filling their plates up with snacks and finding somewhere to perch, book flaps and back covers were read before final selections were made. There was even some petitioning for one’s own donated covers (myself included), while others raved about familiar titles set out.
The idea behind an exchange — gift a book, get a book — is simple, but can have a significant impact. “Book exchanges spark so much joy, love and connection — something that can be missing for so many people during the holiday season,” said McGinnis.