20 Essential Items Every Book Enthusiast Will Love

For true book lovers, every day is an opportunity to celebrate reading. However, once a year, on August 9th, Book Lovers' Day (capitalized) inspires readers of all kinds to disconnect from their devices and immerse themselves in a good book. If you're eager to express your passion for literature, you can elevate the occasion by filling your cozy reading corner with the nostalgic aroma of old books, a cup of literary-inspired tea, and countless other delightful items that every book lover will appreciate.

1. 1,000 Books to Read Before You Die: A Life-Changing List; $22

Think you've exhausted every must-read book? James Mustich, a seasoned bookseller and the author of 1,000 Books to Read Before You Die: A Life-Changing List, might beg to differ. His extensive list includes timeless children's favorites like Goodnight Moon and humorous sci-fi adventures like The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy, alongside some surprising selections. If you choose to tackle just one book per month, you'll have your reading planned out for the next 83 years. (For those who prefer smaller doses, there's also a page-a-day calendar edition.)

2. 100 Essential Novels Scratch-off Chart; $35 to $130

After you've started checking off titles from James Mustich's book list, you’ll want to track your progress—whether or not anyone asks. Pop Chart's scratch-off poster lets you keep a record of the classic novels you've read, featuring a collection of 100 iconic titles.

3. Old Books Candle; $22

Looking to create an atmosphere straight out of a classic novel? Frostbeard Studio, a Minneapolis-based candle maker, uses soy wax to capture the comforting scent of old books (“the sweet, papery kind,” as the company puts it, not the musty ones). With aromas of paper, dust, newsprint, and vanilla, this handmade candle brings all the nostalgia of vintage books—without the allergens.

4. Charles Dickens Library Candles; $12

Not a fan of the smell of old books? How about inhaling the essence of Charles Dickens, the master of grim, foggy London streets, who gifted us with classics like Great Expectations and Oliver Twist. With this Dickens-inspired candle, you'll be tempted to ask for more—thanks to the delightful blend of tangerine, juniper, and clove. The only thing missing? A touch of chimney sweep soot to complete the experience.

5. Literary Book Bags; $105 to $165

KrukruStudioBooks redefines the concept of a book bag with their stylish totes. Each one is designed to mimic the look of a classic novel, featuring the author’s name and a beautifully illustrated cover. You can choose between faux or real leather for your bag and select from an array of iconic titles like Pride and Prejudice, Madame Bovary, Hamlet, The Little Prince, and Lolita. Since each bag is handmade, you can also customize them in various sizes, colors, and styles to suit your preferences.

6. Bookmark Necklace; $100

Is it a necklace? Is it a bookmark? Why not both? Uncommon Goods' beautifully detailed sterling silver necklace doubles as both a stylish accessory and a functional bookmark, helping you keep your place while adding a touch of elegance to any outfit.

7. Foldable Book Lamp; $28

At first glance, BOSQUEEN's book lamp appears to be just a regular book. But open it up, and it transforms into a charming book-style lantern with a soft LED glow and a convenient USB port. Its foldable, portable design means you can easily place it wherever you need a little extra light.

8. Novel Teas; $14

Few things are more comforting than enjoying a hot cup of tea while relaxing with a good book. Keep the literary vibe alive with Novel Teas, a collection of English breakfast tea boxes that feature inspiring quotes from well-known authors on each tea bag.

9. Library Card Mug; $12

Though printed library cards have mostly disappeared with the card catalog, Out of Print brings back the nostalgia of the Dewey Decimal system with this charming library card mug.

10. Edgar Allan Poe Scarf; $32

Edgar Allan Poe is instantly recognizable, so why not impress—and possibly intrigue—others with Poe's image on a scarf? Out of Print’s teal Poe-ka dot scarf is a lightweight accessory made from 80% cotton and 20% silk. As it is hand-dyed and hand-printed, it will require dry cleaning, but it's worth it for all the compliments you'll receive.

11. Banned Books iPhone Case; $36

Show your support for controversial books (even if they're banned for trivial reasons) with one of three minimalist black-and-white “I read banned books” phone cases from Society6. These cases are available for both iPhone and Android. The sleek version is for style, the Tough Case offers more protection, and the Adventurous Case is designed to withstand the worst-case scenarios. Not only does it protect your phone, but it also serves as a great conversation starter.

12. Bram Stoker Dracula Tote; $25

Bram Stoker, the author of Dracula, is celebrated for his gothic tales—and his sense of style. Society6’s hand-sewn tote features a yellow rose, a pink bow, and Stoker’s portrait captured in a cameo. The tote comes in three different sizes, so you can pick the one that suits you best.

13. Knock Knock Personal Library Kit; $13

One of the greatest pleasures of being a bibliophile is lending a beloved book to a friend, family member, or colleague. But there's always that small concern about making sure the book is returned. Even if your personal library doesn’t rival the vast collection of the New York Public Library, this library kit helps you keep track of who borrowed your treasured edition of The Great Gatsby.

14. Pacheco coffee table with storage; $590

The Pacheco Coffee Table by 17 Stories is a stylish take on a vintage library card catalog. Made with a distressed fir and birch veneer finish, it features dark metal legs and offers ample storage with three spacious drawers—perfect for holding everything from books to your other treasures.

15. Bibliophilia: 100 Literary Postcards; $16

While postcards are often tied to travel, books possess their own magical ability to transport you. This collection of 100 postcards features 50 of the most impactful quotes from literary history, allowing your favorite authors—be it Virginia Woolf or Oscar Wilde—to speak for you.

16. Library Books Wallpaper; $27

You don't need an extra 1000 square feet to build your dream library. With this library-inspired wallpaper, you can transform any room into a cozy, bookish sanctuary, no matter the size.

17. Literary Mugs; $16

Uncommon Goods honors literary giants like Jane Austen, Lewis Carroll, the Brontë sisters, and Edgar Allan Poe with their own charming stoneware mugs. Each mug features quotes from their works, such as Austen’s romantic words from Emma (“If I loved you less, I might be able to talk about it more”) and Poe’s haunting “Nevermore.”

18. Why So Ever Bards Dispense Profanity: A Party Game Based on the Works of William Shakespeare; $25

William Shakespeare is revered as the greatest writer in history, but he wasn't shy about using a bit of colorful language. His works are laced with witty and sometimes raunchy jokes (that may have sailed over your head). This adults-only game, a literary spin on Cards Against Humanity, is a perfect homage to the Bard’s cheekier side.

19. Pride and Prejudice Writing Gloves; $26

Whether you're immersed in a good book, writing your own masterpiece, or simply walking the dog, keep the enchanting words of Jane Austen (or any of your favorite authors) close at hand with these fingerless writing gloves.

20. Still I Rise Infinity Scarf; $48

If your neck is prone to getting cold, drape it in the powerful words of Maya Angelou's Still I Rise (perfectly complemented by a pair of writing gloves). Like the gloves, these scarves—adorned with the verses of Angelou's iconic poem—honor not only her but also the works of authors like Shakespeare, Charles Dickens, Kenneth Grahame, and Roald Dahl.