Last updated on March 29th, 2025 at 09:25 pm
Planning a baby shower and looking for a fun twist on the traditional greeting card? Asking guests to bring a book instead of a card is such a sweet way to build your baby’s first library—and let’s be honest, books are way more useful than a card that just gets tossed in a drawer!
You’ve probably spent so much time putting together the perfect baby registry, researching strollers, bottles, and all the must-haves—but have you thought about books? Reading to your baby, even from day one, is such a great way to support early development and language skills. And having books with handwritten notes from loved ones? That makes storytime even more special.
I hadn’t heard of this idea until a few years ago when I went to a friend’s baby shower. Instead of cards, everyone brought their favorite childhood books and wrote little messages inside for her baby boy. Later, when we were setting up her nursery, I got to flip through them, and I knew right then that I wanted to do the same when I had kids!
Fast forward to my own baby shower, and I’m so glad I did. Now, every time I read those books with my son, I think of all the amazing people who love and support us. They aren’t just books—they’re memories we’ll have forever.
Love this idea but not sure how to ask? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! We’re going to chat about why this is such a great baby shower tradition, how to ask your guests politely (without it feeling awkward), and even some great book ideas if you’re the one bringing the gift!
Let’s jump in!
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Already planning on bringing a book to an upcoming baby shower but don’t know what message to write inside? Check out our article on What to Write in a Baby Shower Book for plenty of ideas and inspiration!
Table of Contents:
- How Does a “Book Instead of a Card” Baby Shower Work?
- Benefits of Bringing a Book Instead of a Card
- Things to Consider Before Asking for Books Instead of Cards
- How Do I Ask My Baby Shower Guest to Bring a Book Instead of a Card?
- Examples of How to Ask Guests to Bring Books Instead of Cards
- Best Books to Bring for a “Book Instead of a Card” Baby Shower
- Final Thoughts: Why Books are the Perfect Baby Shower Tradition
How Does a "Book Instead of a Card" Baby Shower Work?
A bring a book instead of a card baby shower is a fun and meaningful way to build a baby’s first library. Instead of bringing a traditional greeting card with their gift, guests bring a children’s book—often with a handwritten note inside for the baby to read one day.
This idea works whether guests are bringing a baby gift or not. Some parents even choose to only request books instead of gifts, which can be a great option for a baby sprinkle or a second-time mom who already has most of the essentials.
Not only does this create a personalized collection of books, but it also gives the mom-to-be a special keepsake filled with messages from her loved ones.
Benefits of Bringing a Book Instead of a Card
Choosing books over cards comes with several great benefits for both the parents and the baby. Here are some of the top reasons to consider it for your shower:
1. Encouraging Early Literacy from Day One
Reading to a baby, even in the newborn stage, plays a huge role in their language development and early learning. The more words they hear, the more they absorb—helping to build their vocabulary before they can even talk!
Studies have shown that babies who are read to regularly tend to know more words by age 2 compared to those who aren’t.
2. Start Building Baby’s First Library
Having books around the house is one of the best ways to get kids excited about reading. When books are easy to grab, and reading becomes part of the daily routine, it naturally encourages a love of stories.
Starting a little collection at the baby shower means the parents will always have something special to read—and plenty of sweet memories to go with it.
3. A Keepsake That Lasts Longer Than a Card
Cards are sweet, but let’s be honest—they usually get read once and then tossed in a drawer (or the trash). Writing a heartfelt note inside a book keeps that personal touch around for years.
As the baby grows, they’ll be able to see those messages and feel connected to the loved ones who gifted them. It’s a keepsake that actually gets used—and cherished—long after the baby shower is over.
4. Strengthening the Parent-Child Bond
Reading with your baby isn’t just about books—it’s about spending quality time together. Those snuggly storytime moments help build a strong parent-child bond, creating a sense of comfort and security. Plus, this time together is so important for baby’s social and emotional development as they grow.
5. A Thoughtful and Personalized Gift
Every book chosen for a baby shower holds a special meaning. Whether it’s a childhood favorite, a story with a sweet message, or a book that reminds the guest of the parents-to-be, it becomes more than just a gift—it’s a personal connection. Unlike a card, which is often picked out last-minute, books are chosen with love and intention, making them even more meaningful.
Looking for more meaningful gift ideas? Check out The Best Personalized Baby Gifts for more thoughtful ways to celebrate the little one!
Things to Consider Before Asking for Books Instead of Cards
While swapping books for cards is a sweet and meaningful tradition, there are a few things to keep in mind before adding it to your baby shower plans. Here are a few potential drawbacks—plus some simple ways to work around them!
1. Some guests may think it is an expensive swap
Let’s be real—books cost more than a greeting card. And if guests are already bringing a baby gift, the added expense might feel like too much. Board books, especially the ones designed to survive teething babies and toddler tantrums, can get pricey!
That’s why it’s important to make it clear that bringing a book is optional. A simple note in the invitation wording can help guests feel comfortable choosing what works for their budget—without any pressure. (We’ll talk more about how to phrase it in a bit!)
2. You may get some duplicate books
While I didn’t run into this issue much, it’s definitely possible to end up with a few duplicates—especially if you ask guests to bring their favorite childhood book. But don’t worry, there are plenty of ways to make good use of extra copies!
Here are a few ideas:
- Share with grandparents – Keep a copy at their house so baby always has books to read during visits.
- Regift or donate – If a book doesn’t have a handwritten message inside, you can pass it along to another new parent or donate it to a local library or school.
- Save as a backup – Kids can be rough on books, and let’s be honest—ripped pages and chew marks are inevitable. Having a second copy tucked away can be a lifesaver!
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Getting repeats isn’t necessarily a bad thing—it just means more books to love!
3. Limited space for messages
Some books just don’t have much room for writing, which might be frustrating for guests who want to leave a longer, sentimental note. Board books and smaller picture books in particular can be tricky, as they often don’t have blank pages or much space on the inside cover.
While it’s not something you can really control, it’s something to keep in mind—especially if you have guests who love to write meaningful messages to commemorate special occasions.
4. Books take up more space than cards
Unlike greeting cards, which can easily be tucked away in a keepsake box, books take up actual shelf space. If the mom-to-be is limited on storage or already has a growing book collection, finding room for all the gifted books might be a bit of a challenge.
While it’s a good problem to have, it’s still something to consider—especially for families in smaller homes or apartments.
Despite these small considerations, swapping books for cards is still a special and meaningful way to celebrate baby’s arrival. Now, let’s talk about the best way to ask your guests to bring a book instead of a card—without it feeling awkward!
How Do I Ask My Baby Shower Guests to Bring a Book Instead of a Card?
At the end of the day, this is just a request—not a requirement. Just like baby shower gifts themselves, asking for books instead of cards should be framed as a thoughtful option, not an expectation.
Some guests may love the idea and happily pick out a book, while others may prefer to bring a card or even come empty-handed. And that’s okay! The most important thing is that they’re there to celebrate and support you.
When wording your request, keep it warm, respectful, and full of gratitude. Avoid anything that sounds like you’re assuming every guest will participate—just offer it as a fun alternative for those who’d like to.
And of course, if someone is kind enough to bring a book, be sure to include that in your baby shower thank-you cards!
Alright, enough of my soapbox—let’s talk about how to word your request!
Examples of How to Ask Guests to Bring Books Instead of Cards
The easiest way to let guests know about this request is by including a short note on the baby shower invitation or adding a separate insert in the envelope.
How you word the request makes all the difference! Keeping it light, friendly, and optional ensures guests feel encouraged rather than obligated. Personally, I think a cute rhyme is the perfect way to get the message across.
Here are a few of my favorites:
(The original authors of these poems and rhymes are unknown.)
Cute & Catchy Rhyme Ideas
Instead of a card, we have one small request:
Please bring a book that you like best.
We hope you write a special line or two,Â
So that each time we read it, we think of you!
One small request that won’t be too hard…
Please bring a book instead of a card.
By signing your book we’ll remember and share
Your special gift, even when you’re not there!
A small request for you, we hope it’s not hard.Â
To bring a book for baby, instead of a card.
It doesn’t matter if it’s well loved or brand new.Â
Either way your book will remind baby of you.Â
Please write a small message on the inside cover.
And your words will be cherished forever and ever.
Whether it’s Cat in the Hat or Winnie The Pooh.
You can sign the book with a note from you!
By signing the book we will remember and share.
This special gift from you even when you’re not there.
Your book will be cherished well – loved or brand new.
Please don’t feel obligated, we’ll leave it up to you!
To fill baby’s library shouldn’t be hard,
If you bring a book instead of a card.
It doesn’t matter which story you choose;
Just be sure to include a note from you!
Instead of a card,
we have a small request:
Please bring a book —
(Baby’s name)will enjoy that the best!
We can read your inscription
each night before bed,
And enjoy your sentiment
through all the years ahead.
If Rhymes Aren’t Your Thing...
Not everyone loves poetry, and that’s okay! If you’d rather keep it simple, here are a couple of straightforward wording ideas to include on your baby shower invitation:
- Instead of bringing a greeting card, please write your wishes in your favorite children’s book for baby to cherish forever.
- Instead of a card, please bring a copy of your favorite childhood book for our baby boy/girl.
- Instead of a greeting card, please sign the cover of a book that our little one will enjoy for years to come.
- In place of a card, please bring a book—new or well-loved—so we can fill baby’s shelves with stories to enjoy for years to come.
- Skip the card and bring a book instead—bonus points if it’s a childhood favorite!
Best Books to Bring for a "Book Instead of a Card" Baby Shower
If you’re attending a baby shower that’s requesting books instead of cards, choosing the perfect book can feel a little overwhelming. A great way to make it meaningful is to pick a childhood favorite or a book you’ve loved reading to your own kids.
Need some inspiration? Here are some fantastic book ideas that make great baby shower gifts:
- I Love You To The Moon and Back by Amelia Hepworth
- The Hungry Caterpillar by
- Are You My Mother by Dr. Suess
- Goodnight Moon by Margaret Wise Brown
- The Wonderful Things You Will Be by Emily Wingfield Martin
- Stellaluna by Janell Cannon
- Love You Forever by Robert Munsch
- Guess How Much I Love You by Sam McBratney
- The Going to Bed Book by Sandra Boynton
- Oh Baby, The Places You’ll Go by Dr Suess
- If Animals Kissed Goodnight by Ann Whitford Paul
- God Gave Us You by Lisa Tawn Bergren
- I Prayed For You by Jean Fischer
Final Thoughts: Why Books are the Perfect Baby Shower Tradition
And that’s it! Asking for books instead of cards at a baby shower is such a simple way to make the celebration even more meaningful. Not only does it help build a beautiful collection of books for baby, but those handwritten notes inside will turn each one into a keepsake that will be cherished for years.
At the end of the day, it’s not really about whether guests bring a book or a card—it’s about celebrating the parents-to-be and the excitement of welcoming a new baby. Whether guests bring a book, a card, or just themselves, the most important thing is surrounding the new little one with love and support.
So soak it all in, enjoy the shower, and get ready for bedtime stories filled with cuddles, giggles, and sweet memories.
Check out more great baby shower related content:
- What to Write in a Baby Shower Book [+50 Example Inscriptions]
- How to Host a Diaper Raffle at a Baby Shower
- How to Throw a Virtual Baby Shower
- Best Locations to Host a Baby Shower
- Baby Shower Thank You Cards: How to Write the Perfect Card
- The Ultimate Baby Registry Guide
- 33 Best Baby Shower Game Prize Ideas (That Aren’t Gift Cards)
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