Book Sharing Network
Guidelines
A simple agreement for sharing books with care, clarity, and respect
The Book Sharing Network helps worthwhile books move between readers, homes, and neighbourhoods throughout Squamish. These guidelines are intended to keep that sharing simple, respectful, and clear.
Two Ways to Share
1) Returnable books remain with their original owner and should be returned by the agreed date. They should not be passed to someone else without the owner’s permission.
2) Books that can keep moving do not need to be returned. After reading one, you may pass it to another reader or place it in a community sharing location.
The sharing preference should always be clear before a book changes hands.
Sharing with Care
When offering a book, please provide an accurate description of its condition and indicate whether you would like it returned.
When borrowing a book, please:
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Keep it reasonably clean, dry, and protected from avoidable damage.
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Avoid writing in or altering a returnable book without permission.
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Do not lend a returnable book to someone else.
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Contact us promptly if the book is lost or damaged.
Books are meant to be enjoyed. Ordinary signs of careful reading are expected.
Returns and Renewals
Returnable books will have an agreed return date. If you would like more time, please request a renewal before that date. Renewals may be possible, but the decision remains with the book’s owner.
If a book is late, lost, or seriously damaged, communication matters most. Please let us know so we can help arrange its return or discuss a reasonable replacement or other solution.
Exchanges, Privacy, and Respect
Whenever possible, exchanges should take place at an agreed public or community location. Confirm plans in advance, communicate if something changes, and never visit someone’s home unexpectedly. Participants under 18 should arrange exchanges through a parent or guardian.
Personal contact information will not be displayed publicly. It will only be used to coordinate the Book Sharing Network. If a direct exchange requires contact information to be shared, we will confirm this with the people involved first.
Please communicate respectfully, use another person’s information only for the book exchange, and let us know about any concerning or uncomfortable behaviour.
A Network Built on Trust
The Book Sharing Network depends on goodwill and shared responsibility. Although The Book & Lantern can help coordinate exchanges and send reminders, we cannot guarantee that every book will be returned or remain in exactly the same condition.
Please offer only books you feel comfortable sharing through a voluntary community network. The Book & Lantern may pause someone’s participation following repeated missed returns, misuse of contact information, or unsafe or disrespectful conduct.
Questions or Concerns
If you need help with an exchange or have questions about these guidelines, please contact:
Last updated: August 2026