Do you ever wonder how your school library stays so neat and organized, with all the books and resources you need right at your fingertips? That’s all thanks to amazing librarians! But let’s be honest, when was the last time you thanked your favorite purveyor of books, resources, and information for their hard work?
In 2023, National Library Week begins on April 23, and National Library Workers Day is Tuesday, April 25. It’s a perfect time to say “thanks” to librarians and library staff. Let’s explore some gifts for librarians that will help you perfectly express your gratitude and appreciation.
11 Best Librarian Gift Ideas
Believe it or not, books are not a great gift for librarians. Seems counterintuitive, right? But think about it: librarians already have access to thousands of books. So, unless you’re giving them a first-edition copy of their all-time favorite book that’s been signed by the author and sprinkled with fairy dust, think outside the box and get them something practical or fun. Here are some of our favorite picks.
Bonus: Teachers and students get awesome discounts from these brands with their verified ID.me membership!
Practical Gifts for Librarians
Planner | Happy Planners
Book lovers are often planner lovers, too — there’s something so satisfying about writing by hand on actual paper. Happy Planners has a huge selection of dated and undated planners with themes ranging from elegant and classic to fun and colorful, so you can choose the planner that fits your favorite librarian’s personality to a T!
Vera Tote Bag | Vera Bradley
A librarian needs something to tote their books in, right? This book-adjacent item makes the perfect gift for a librarian. The over-the-shoulder tote bag is roomy, sturdy, and comes in a large variety of Vera Bradley’s signature patterns and colors. It’s also made of recycled cotton that’s water-repellent and washable.
Sling Cooler Bag | Corkcicle
This lightweight, sleek crossbody cooler bag is designed to hold a 20 oz. or 32 oz. canteen or water bottle along with other essentials like cards and keys, making it a great everyday bag for work and play. Comes in five colors.
Classic Insulated Mug | Tervis
Curling up with a book and a hot cuppa is such a treat, and this insulated mug from Tervis is perfect for the job. The generous 16 oz. mug keeps hot drinks hot, is dishwasher safe, and even comes with a lid to make it travel-friendly. What if your librarian is more into cold drinks? Check out the classic tumblers instead.
Luxurious Gifts for Librarians
Coffee Break Gift Basket | GourmetGiftBaskets.com
If you know your favorite librarian is a tea or coffee lover, then this delectable gift basket is a winner. With two types of coffee, a selection of tea bags, and sweet and savory snacks, it’s perfect for sharing with coworkers or entertaining at home.
Slippers | Dearfoams
Whenever your favorite librarian kicks up their feet with a coffee or a cocktail at home — and probably a good book because librarian — they’ll need a cozy pair of slippers. Dearfoams has a huge variety of styles, from classic heel-less slip-ons to warm booties, for both men and women.
The Monday Trio Alcohol-Free Spirits | Monday
Here’s something fun and different — Monday makes alcohol-free spirits for people who enjoy cocktails but don’t want the alcohol. This sampler set comes with 750 ml. bottles each of zero-alcohol gin, mezcal, and whiskey, each of which is a great base for delicious and creative cocktails.
Botanical Melamine Plates (Set of 4) | Tuckernuck
Another gift for the home, these beautiful melamine plates are perfect for indoor and outdoor dining. With a classic blue-and-white look, these 9” diameter plates are sturdy and dishwasher safe, too.
Dried Lavender Fields Bouquet | FromYouFlowers.com
Flowers add a touch of beauty to any space. Instead of sending fresh-cut flowers, send this bouquet of dried lavender instead. The simple but stunning bouquet smells incredible and lasts up to two years. (Bonus: Breathing the scent of lavender has been shown to reduce anxiety and improve mood.)
Garden Candle Gift Set | Brooklyn Candle Studio
Brooklyn Candle Studio makes beautiful candles with sustainable soy wax and phthalate-free perfume oils. This sampler set of three 7.5 oz candles includes three flower-filled scents: Love Potion, Sunday Morning, and Hawaii Rain. Each candle burns for up to 50 hours and comes with a travel-friendly lid.
Daisy Body Wash + Buffer Sponge | Spongelle
Spongelle has a devoted following of fans who have fallen in love with their body wash-infused bath sponges. Each cleansing, exfoliating buffer sponge has enough cleanser for multiple showers and comes in a range of fragrances and colors.
