An online book exchange has currently been sweeping through towns across the Midwest, including Goshen. According to Wendy Hernandez, a senior nursing major, the trend is reaching cities as far as Indianapolis, Bloomington, and even Chicago, and by giving just one book, participants can receive up to 36.
Though the originator of the trend is unknown, it began with an Instagram story post requesting followers, if interested, to send one book of their choice to an assigned recipient. The followers are then asked to repost the original message if they participated.In the exchange, the individual who reposts the message acts as a link between participants. When someone expresses interest after seeing the repost, the reposting individual shares the name and shipping address of the original poster. The interested participant then sends a book of their choosing to the original poster, as well as to any additional individuals who also asked to join through the repost. This process allows the exchange to continue as the message is shared with new audiences.
Though there are some drawbacks, such as upfront costs to send a book, Wendy said the exchange can be a worthwhile investment. “One thing I wanted to do this year was read more, so the incentive of sending one book and getting about 36 back, it’s like, I’m set for the whole year.”
Similarly, though the exchange is geared towards giving participants a leisurely read, students at GC may choose to send textbooks or required readings for classes, allowing them to show support to fellow classmates as students.The pay-it-forward book exchange has spread rapidly across social media.
Even beyond books, the trend encourages participants to continue seeking opportunities to grow and it encourages the habit of reading amongst a young audience.
