12 Unique Gifts for Book Lovers That Aren’t Books

Finding the perfect gift for a book lover can be tricky - especially if you want to avoid the obvious choice of gifting them another book. In fact, the National Retail Federation's holiday survey found that books and media were among the top ten most popular gift categories. But with their shelves already brimming, why not surprise them with something a bit different?

But don't worry! Whether you're shopping for a birthday, holiday, or just because, there are plenty of unique, thoughtful options that celebrate their love of reading without adding to their bookshelf. From personalized library stamps to literary-inspired candles, these hand-picked gifts are sure to delight any bibliophile.

So, if you're looking to surprise the book lover in your life with something truly special, these one-of-a-kind treasures are sure to make an impression.

1. Custom Personal Library Book Stamp

Looking for a personalized gift that’s both functional and thoughtful? The custom book stamps are the perfect way for book lovers to make their mark - literally! Whether for an avid reader, collector, or librarian, this custom stamp adds a unique touch to any book collection. With options like "From the Library of" or "This Book Belongs To," it’s a delightful way to personalize and organize their favorite reads.

Available in both wood-handled and self-inking versions, this high-quality stamp ensures lasting impressions with every use. It’s an ideal gift for the book lovers who takes pride in their collection, allowing them to lend or display their books with a personal, stylish stamp of ownership.

2. Personalized Heart-Shaped Corner Bookmark

For the book lover who’s always reading, this Personalized Heart-Shaped Corner Bookmark adds a touch of elegance and personalization to their reading routine. Made from soft faux leather and available in blush pink or classic navy, this heart-shaped bookmark sits perfectly in the corner of any book, helping them keep their place in style. You can add up to three initials, making it a thoughtful and custom gift that’s perfect for birthdays, holidays, or just because.

3. Custom Marble and Wood Coasters

For the book lover who enjoys a cozy reading nook or a well-decorated home, these Custom Marble and Wood Coasters are a thoughtful and stylish gift. Handcrafted from Acacia wood paired with marble, slate, or stone, these coasters are laser-engraved with your chosen design - whether it’s their initials, a favorite literary quote, or a family name. With 20 beautiful templates to choose from or the option to fully customize, these coasters add a personalized touch to any setting.

Perfect for protecting their surfaces while they sip on tea or coffee during a reading session, these coasters are as functional as they are elegant. The foam-padded backing ensures they won’t slip, keeping their beverages secure as they dive into their favorite books.

4. Personal Library Kit

For bibliophiles who love sharing their favorite reads but dread never getting them back, the Personal Library Kit offers a fun and practical solution. Complete with self-adhesive pockets, checkout cards, and a date stamp, this kit gives your home library a classic, old-school feel. 

Simply place the pocket in your book, fill out the card, and lend with peace of mind, knowing that your books will return safely to your shelf. Housed in a beautifully designed box that resembles a real book, this kit is perfect for lovers of vintage library aesthetics.

5. The Picture of Dorian Gray Literary Candle

For book lovers who want to create the perfect reading atmosphere, the Wordsmith Candles – The Picture of Dorian Gray Literary Candle is a delightful choice. Inspired by Oscar Wilde's classic, this candle features a sophisticated scent of cedarwood, patchouli, jasmine, and violet, offering a luxurious fragrance reminiscent of timeless elegance. Handmade in Ireland using a vegan blend of rapeseed and coconut wax, it’s the ideal companion for those who love reading in front of a warm fire.

With 20 hours of burn time and a beautiful scent throw, this candle helps set the mood for an immersive reading experience. Housed in a recyclable tin, it’s perfect for environmentally conscious readers who enjoy the finer things in life, making it a wonderful gift for literary fans who appreciate both classics and craftsmanship.

6. Personalized Book Poster (Printable)

For book lovers who want to create a cozy, personalized reading nook, the Personalized Book Poster offers a perfect solution. This beautifully designed, customizable poster allows you to add your name to transform any space into your special reading corner. Whether it’s the bedroom, study, or library, this elegant design adds a touch of literary charm to your surroundings.

The best part? It’s printable! You’ll receive a high-resolution digital file that you can print at home, at a local print shop, or through an online service. Choose from various sizes to fit your space, and watch as your reading corner comes to life with your very own name displayed proudly.

7. A RAD Reading Journal

For the book lover who enjoys keeping track of their literary adventures, the A RAD Reading Journal is the perfect companion. This journal offers a fun and organized way to record books, stats, reading lists, and progress. 

With templated pages to help track genres, authors, and reading goals, it’s designed to inspire readers to dig deeper into their reading habits and set new challenges. Plus, the blank pages allow for creativity—perfect for notes, ideas, and reflections on their favorite books.

8. Personalized Love Book by Luhvee

Looking for a meaningful, heartfelt gift for the book lover in your life? The Personalized Love Book by Luhvee offers a unique way to celebrate your relationship or express your appreciation in a truly personal form. 

Each book is pre-written but fully customizable, allowing you to add your own photos, names, special dates, and a personal dedication, making it a one-of-a-kind keepsake. Whether for a romantic partner, parent, grandparent, or best friend, this love book captures your emotions perfectly.

9. Bookshop Around the Corner – Book Lovers' Soy Candle

Nothing sets the mood for a cozy reading session quite like the scent of a beloved bookshop in the fall. The Bookshop Around the Corner Soy Candle by Frostbeard Studio combines the nostalgic fragrances of autumn leaves, freshly sharpened pencils, and delicate daisies, perfectly capturing the charm of a quaint, corner bookstore. This handmade, eco-friendly candle is crafted with 100% soy wax, cruelty-free ingredients, and reusable containers, making it both sustainable and luxurious.

10. The Book Was Better Stickers

For the book lover who always prefers the book to the movie, this "The Book Was Better" Sticker is the perfect way to show off their literary pride. These vibrant, durable vinyl stickers are not only water and scratch-resistant but also a fun, subtle way to celebrate a love for books. Whether decorating laptops, water bottles, or notebooks, these stickers make a bold statement that any true bibliophile will appreciate.

This affordable gift is ideal for book nerds who want to share their reading preferences with the world. It’s a great small gift or stocking stuffer that adds a bit of bookish personality to everyday items.

11. Secret Diary Book Locket

For the sentimental book lover, the Secret Diary Book Locket by Fortune & Frame offers a stunning way to carry a piece of personal inspiration wherever they go. Inspired by ornate vintage storybooks, this gold-dipped brass locket opens to reveal a personalized message or one of Fortune & Frame's empowering quotes. It’s a beautiful blend of jewelry and storytelling and arrives in a gift-ready, signature storybook box, making it an exceptional gift for bookworms who value both style and sentiment.

12. The Book Lover's Lantern

For the bibliophile who loves to surround themselves with literary-inspired decor, the Page Turner Lantern is a perfect addition. Crafted from your choice of Maple, White Oak, or Black Walnut, this lantern features a rhythmic, inverted design that mimics the fluttering pages of an open book. Its simple yet striking design makes it an elegant accent for any home.

Available in three sizes, this lantern is ideal for readers, educators, or book club members who want to add a touch of bookish charm to their space.