The Book Thing

The other day my niece, Billie, looked over my shoulder and ordered a book from my Paperbackswap site.  Realizing I had but two credits left, I knew it was time for my semi-annual trip to Baltimore's The Book Thing.

The Book Thing began years ago when Russell, a bartender, overheard teachers complaining about the lack of supplies, especially books, at their school.  His campaign to gather books for them led to what exists now, a small warehouse in Baltimore filled with books.  Free books. Tons of free books.  You can find all kinds of books there.  Don't look for a Dewey Decimal arrangement, these books are loosely shelved by categories: fiction, government, music, health, history, and so on.  There are expensive coffee table books, out-of-print books, best sellers, self-published books, anything you want to read.  About the only type of book  that can be scarce is the children's book.  I don't know if they aren't donated, or if they're immediately snapped up.  When I was in Savannah, I was tempted to buy some "rare" and "out-of-print" Eugenia Price novels.  Between The Book Thing and Paperbackswap, I found all I need to get started exploring her novels about the places I fell in love with on my recent vacation.  The books are totally free, and when you take them, it is with the agreement that they stay free; no selling of these books is allowed.

Should you decide to visit, let me share a few hints to make your visit a little more pleasant. The Book Thing is only open on Saturday and Sunday from 9-6.  They are open EVERY Saturday and Sunday - they don't close for snow, rain, Christmas, Kwanza, or the Jewish holidays.  Parking can be tricky as the lot is small.  There's a nice little lot next to the building, and you may be tempted to park there.  Don't do it!  The signs say the owners will tow, and they mean it.  Make sure you've gone to the bathroom before starting out.  I once had to use the toilet there. I shudder at the memory.  It was filthy,  making the porta-potties at Woodstock look clean. Bring a sturdy tote bag.  You may think all you'll find is enough to carry in your arms.  Ha!  You'll see.  Dress for the weather.  If it's hot out, it's hot in the warehouse.  If it's cold out, it's cold in. These folks operate on a shoestring budget. Bring some books to donate if you can.

Today I swore I would not fill up my trunk.  I brought three tote bags and decided that when they were full, I would go home. HA!  I have no self-control.  After filling up and dumping the tote bags three times, my trunk was full, and I was ready to go home.  I found large print books for the senior center, lots of books to trade on Paperbackswap, books for friends, and yes, books to shove onto my already over-stuffed bookshelves.  All they ask in return is that you sign your name on a sheet of paper and write the number of books you've taken.  I never count my books.  I guesstimate 60-70, and believe-it-or not, there are people who take many more.  It's not greedy, it's expected.

I hope you book lovers take advantage of this great resource in Baltimore.  Someday you'll either thank me or cuss me for turning you on to The Book Thing. 

                                          The Book Thing
                                           3001 Vineyard Lane
                                           Baltimore, MD 21218
                                           410-662-5631