everything is a bookmark

Hello.

Despite my reluctance to celebrity book clubs, Kaia Gerber’s Library Science has a special place in my heart. They posted something recently about how everything is a bookmark, and I thought it was the sweetest, most relatable thing as an avid reader who reads multiple books at once and often scrambles to find objects to save my place between the pages.

But we must address the elephant in the room when it comes to celebrity/ influencer book clubs. Ochuko Akpovbovbo wrote a brilliant essay here on substack: why everyone wants to be the internet's librarian. In her essay, she explores the rise of celebrity book clubs and their impact on reading culture. She examines the trend of famous individuals starting book clubs, not just as a means to appear more intellectual, but also as a strategic move for influence and profit. She discusses how intellectualism has become a new form of social capital and how celebrities use book endorsements to shape their personas and influence their audiences. Ochuko also touches on the nostalgic power of book clubs and their potential to foster genuine community.

While I agree with her points, there are a few bookclubs out there with good intentions, and Library Science stands out as being one of them. They combine literary curation with a focus on fostering genuine discussions and community engagement around books. Unlike many celebrity book clubs that primarily exist on social media, Gerber's initiative delves deeper into literary analysis and encourages thoughtful conversations. It includes diverse book selections, ranging from essays and memoirs to poetry and plays, and often features author interviews and interactive elements that enrich the reading experience. This approach aims to create a more intimate and intellectually stimulating environment for readers. Not like this matters (it does), but Library Science is about to launch really cute merch soon.

(taken from the Library Science Instagram)

The bottom line is that we need more bookclubs in person, fostering community, and connecting more people together who share the same affinity for books and literary culture.

With that said, let’s move on to bookmarks.

(taken from the Library Science Instagram)

Can we talk about how everything is a bookmark?

Library Science shared a few posts about the things people use as bookmarks, so I’m going to share some of my favorites:

(taken from the Library Science Instagram)

-perfume blotter strips

-kissed lipstick stains on napkins

-metro cards

-movie theatre tickets

-ribbons

-receipts

-recipe index cards

-hair clips

-bobby pins

-scrap pappers

-a ripped piece of newspaper

-love notes

-an old photo

(taken from the Library Science Instagram)

I’m curious to hear your thoughts this- (both on celebrity bookclubs and your favorite scrappy bookmark of choice).

See you tomorrow.

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