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| After a lot of questions about how to label books, I decided to show you how I label my books. This isn't the only way, it isn't even the best way, it's just my way. One of the great things is that you have a lot of latitude on how you label books. So, take all of my ideas, or take just one of my ideas, or create your own style.
The important part of labeling is that the book is clearly labeled as being a special book. It must include the BCID in a way that can't be destroyed or taken out of the book, it must include the BookCrossing web address, and it should include some sort of explanation.
Clear packing tape is your friend. |
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I use a mixture of Supply Store labels, free labels from the website labels other members have designed, and some of my own designs. Each label includes the BCID and the url. I sometimes include my user name and the date and place of the registration or release. |
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I write the basic info in a few random places inside the book. I think that by doing this, no one can ever remove all evidence that this is a special book. |
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I use my BC stamp or write a brief note at the end of the book to encourage the reader to make a journal entry. I try to do this on the last page of the story, but sometimes, there isn't room, so I go to the next clear page. If the book is old and the pages are thin, I try not to use the stamp where the ink will bleed through to the text. |
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I put something on the cover to grab people's attention. I have an assortment of stickers from the Supply Store, and my own imagination The supply store labels come with a gummed, removable edge. Since I don't want it to ever be removed, I cover the label with clear packing tape.. |
| I don't always put labels on the back cover. If I'm not in a hurry and have one handy, I'll put one over the price or the UPC code. |
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If the book is a paperback with a creased worn spine, I like to reinforce it with clear packing tape. I also reinforce the corners of the covers if they are worn. The sturdier I can make the book, the longer it can travel.
I like to use the little, bitty book labels from the Supply Store, but when I run out of them, I make my own. You can find a Ballycumber graphic on my labels page or many other places. If someone puts the book on their bookshelf, I want Bally to be back there waving at them, reminding them that it is a special book. Again, I cover it with packing tape. |
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I write the BCID on the bottom edge of the book--again, it is one more place that can't be removed. I use a fine point Sharpie for this. |
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I guess this is self-explanatory. I want people to remember the name BookCrossing. |
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I like to use one of the taglines from the BookCrossing site across the top edge of the book. Sometimes, I make up my own little sayings. My current favorite is "Reading...pass it on!" and "Reading...share the fun!". |
| So, that's the way I do it. I've tried other things, like using a paper heart for the free book label on front during February, and other little themed labels. For Halloween releases, I made my own labels with a Halloween theme. If I'm in a hurry, I leave out a step or two. It's all about choice!!!
Have fun, be creative, and good luck!!! |
