Ask for a book is for:

• anyone who would like to receive a reading suggestion from a trusted source
• keen readers looking for something new
• occasional readers who might need to a motivational push
• readers with limited time to browse when visiting the library
• less confident readers who aren’t sure where to start 

Some people already know exactly what they want to read but many of us are open to a recommendation from a friend, a colleague, a book club or a website. If somebody else says a book is good, we are more likely to give it a try. Not everyone has a network of friends and family who recommend books to each other so that’s where the library can help. 

People’s choices are increasingly made online. As you know, search engines and websites will push things at you based on your browsing history. Rigidly designed algorithms are ok if you want to buy the same groceries every week, but if you are somebody who fancies a good read but are not sure where to start, most websites don’t really help much. Retail sites will suggest the latest bestsellers and books by authors you have searched for before. Readers’ reviews can help your decision, but you still have to start your search with a title that you know. It’s difficult to stumble on something entirely new to you. 

If you’re up for a lot of research to find your books, that’s all fine. If you’d like to spend just 2 minutes telling someone what you like and receive related suggestions, then Ask for a Book is for you. 

Ask for a Book is a collaboration between 15 public library services in England and the creative agency Opening the Book. It is a two-year pilot programme supported using public funding by Arts Council England.