How to ask for a book instead of a card for a baby shower

June 9, 2025

I did this at my baby shower almost 5 years ago (phrase number 8 was used on my baby shower invitation) and we regularly read the books gifted from my lovely family and friends – always taking care to read their message first.

It’s the sweetest thing doing this with my son now he’s older and we always talk about who it was that gifted the book – sometimes this means we talk about my beautiful Nana & Nanny, now in heaven. 🕊️

If you are heading to a baby shower soon, I urge you to do this for them. You’ll never know how important the messages in these books may mean to mum and to baby, in the future.

Why is gifting a book instead of a card a GREAT idea?

With your heartflelt, handwritten message, the book instantly becomes a priceless keepsake
Books are re-read and re-read. Cards are typically read once and "put away" or even thrown out
Reading to babies has evidence-based benefits to their overall development
Supports local authors and bookstores
Versatile - books can be your own pre-loved book, from a thrift shop or brand new

10 ways to ask for a BOOK instead of a card at your BABY SHOWER 🤰

To use any of these book requests- simply copy and paste the text and add to your baby shower invitation!

1. Although cards are nice...

“Although cards are nice, they are really only read once or maybe twice.

A book however is a treasure that my baby will grow into and will have forever. So instead of gifting a card that will just be put aside, please bring a book with your name inside.

Whether your book is pre-loved or brand-new, please write a line or two! Because when we read it, we will always be thinking of you.”

2. Baby's First Library

“Welcome little one, so new and so sweet. We can’t wait to meet you and greet.

In lieu of a card, please bring a book. So your first library will have a great look.

Filled with love from family and friends. Your bookshelf will be where your journey begins!”

3. A Childhood Classic

“From Peter Rabbit to Mother Goose,
Thomas the Train and Dr. Seuss,
Curious George and Winnie-the-Pooh,
Eloise and Babar, too …

In lieu of a card, we ask that you bring
your favorite childhood classic.
Let’s build (baby’s name) a library —
that will be fantastic!”

4. One small request...

“One small request, we hope it’s not hard, please bring a kid’s book instead of a card.

It’s okay if it’s vintage or something brand new. Every time we read it, we’ll think fondly of you.

Write a sweet message on the inside cover, we’ll cherish your words, forever and ever.”

5. Through all the years ahead

“Instead of a card,
we have a small request:
Please bring a book —
(Baby’s name) will enjoy that the best!
We can read your inscription
each night before bed,
And enjoy your sentiment
through all the years ahead.”

6. Straight to the point...

“Although cards are nice, please bring a book instead. We want to fill the nursery with happy stories that include sweet messages from family and friends.”

7. It's not too hard...

“One little request, we hope it’s not hard, bring a book instead of a card. Pick any book, but in whichever you choose, include a note to the baby from you.”

8. Well loved or brand new...

“Instead of a card, we have a request – please bring a book that you like the best!

Please sign the book with a note from you.

Your book will be cherished if it is well loved or brand new because either way, it will remind the baby of you”

9. We will leave it up to you...

“One small request that won’t be too hard:
Please bring a book instead of a card.
Well-loved or brand new, either will do!
But please don’t feel obligated;
We’ll leave it up to you.”

Article by Birchy’s Books