In theory, BookSerf is a simple enough concept. You choose some of your own books you’d be willing to share, browse other people’s selections and after a few simple steps… you eventually meet to exchange books with people around the city. No charges, no tricks. Their newly updated website is pretty slick and allows for some pretty thorough book-hunting. Perhaps the greatest perk is it provides a chance to chat with people about books that resonate with you as a reader, and then offer the same opportunity to other Bookserfers.
Additionally, BookSerf hosts workshops and events on a regular basis, bringing book lovers together to trade texts, share ideas and get to know one another. Live music, readings and screenings are all regularly featured at their events.
A quick look at their book list shows the variety of options available for readers, in several languages. As they say, diversity is the spice of life and you’re bound to discover something here you weren’t even aware you were looking for.
To address the inspiration behind such a great project, Bookserfers Erbil Sivaslıoğlu and Kerem Sun had the following to say:
“We love books! We like them so much that it hurts us to watch them gather dust on our libraries. Not to mention how high the prices of books have gotten in our digital age. It is a pity to know that all around the world, beautiful books are not being read. Or wanting to be read, but being too expensive.
So one day, we were struck with an epiphany. Why not upload your whole library on the internet and share your books with other fellow book lovers? It seemed like an obvious idea, but after some research we saw that no such site existed. So we set out to create a community where people can share their books, meet other like-minded readers, and talk about literature and life.
To borrow a book, you don’t need to share your own books. all you have to do is write a comment in the box under the book, and wait for the book’s owner to get in touch with you. Than you two meet up, you borrow the book, read it and give it back.”
Needless to say, it’s a welcome addition to the scene in Istanbul.
Start off by checking out their website, particularly their book sharing guide. It provides everything you need to know to get started. Also, be sure to follow them via Twitter and Facebook to stay up to date.
