The second public book giving at Tea at Shiloh

The fourteenth Seen Library book exchange (in this case, book giving) and the second open to the public for new faces to join.

These book givings have really been such a special, intimate space where strangers leave as friends, connecting with one another over the unique portals only books can provide. It was really moving to see how everyone came in with such openness and vulnerability - one that was contagious and felt by all in attendance. While a few people voiced their nervousness coming to a place without knowing anyone, that hesitancy soon shed as everyone mingled and befriended one another.

We spent the morning drinking tea and handpicking wrapped books — all carefully selected with one theme in mind: the pursuit of love, whether romantic, familial, platonic or self love. Each one was wrapped in a uniform creamy paper, adorned with a custom library card that showcased handwritten clues, so that people can choose a book by its story, rather than by its cover.

The most incredible part of the morning was everyone sitting around in a circle, introducing themselves and sharing what part of the clues really resonated with them. Some chose books in search of healing and reflection, while others chose them for a lighthearted story about second chance romance. Another sub-theme stood out, though, a yearning for understanding and acceptance from family and parents.

I am so grateful for everyone who reserved a spot and came in with an open mind and heart and I look forward to the next one.

If you missed this book exchange and want to make it to the next one, make sure to follow @seenlibrary for any and all updates or subscribe to this Substack to be notified first.