bookcrossing

Bookcrossing is a global book sharing project that allows people to release books into the wild for others to find, read, and then re-release. The concept was founded by American software developer Ron Hornbaker in 2001. Participants register their books online at the Bookcrossing website and label them with a unique identification number. When someone finds a registered book, they can then go online, enter the ID number, and record that they have "caught" the book. They can then read it and decide to either "release" it back into the wild or "gift" it to another person.

The primary goal of Bookcrossing is to "make all the world a library." It encourages people to share their favorite books and discover new ones. It also aims to reduce waste by giving books a longer life and to promote literacy and the joy of reading. Members can track the journey of their books as they travel from person to person across different cities and countries. Some participants also organize local Bookcrossing events to exchange books and connect with other members.

Bookcrossing operates on a simple principle of trust and community. Participants are encouraged to be responsible and to treat the books with care. The project has grown to encompass millions of members worldwide and hundreds of millions of books have been registered and released. It has been adapted in various forms, including dedicated "Bookcrossing Zones" in public places like cafes and libraries, where members can leave and pick up books.