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Symin Dawson shares a favorite book during Stories in the Park with the Warsaw Community Public Library. Photo provided by WCPL.

Time was that books were sold bound in heavy wooden covers, bound in leather and stitched to a spine.

These books were sturdy and beautiful, but also very heavy. In the 19th century another technique of improving the printing and publishing of books came about, the paperback novel.

These books were easily transportable, less expensive to manufacture, and provided a pleasing way to carry one’s beloved book on their person. Paperback Book Day, July 30, celebrates the creation of this manner of book, and the people who carry them around every day.

Paperback Book Day is observed as the anniversary of the date that the first Penguin paperbacks were published in England back in 1935. Back in the day, only the hardcover books were of good literature. A great deal of people did not have the money to purchase hardcovers.

The best way to celebrate Paperback Book Day is to curl up with your favorite paperback book. If it’s been a while since you’ve bought a book, this is your opportunity to do so. Get out there and find a copy of your favorite text, or even pass one on to another friend.

Then, when you’ve hit all the used bookstores and checked the shelves of the nearest bookstores, it’s time to come home and peruse your collection.

There are lots of great book clubs all around the world, so you are certain to find one locally. This is a great occasion for you to read new books and discuss them with enthusiastic people who love to read. If you do not want to join a book club, you can also find forums online whereby book devotees talk with one another.

Another way that you can celebrate is by getting started on your own book. If you have been aspiring to write your own book, now is the perfect opportunity to do so. They often say that getting started is the hard part. You do not need to write the next bestseller. You could even start writing a journal. This is an advantageous way to write down your feelings at the end of the day. It can actually be a soothing exercise, helping you to have health sleep and carry less stress.

Visit the Warsaw Community Public Library and celebrate Paperback Book Day. Staff are here to help you find your next read.