Shopping·11 min read

18 Things You Need If 'Read More' Is a Goal This Year

reading accessories
Design: theSkimm | Photo: Ban.do, Rifle Paper Co., Literie Candles
May 1, 2024

This post was originally published in June 2021 and has been updated.

Products you buy through our links may earn us a commission. Oh, and if something's out of stock, oops, it was there (and all prices were accurate) at time of publication.

ICYMI: We have a thing for books…and any book-related accessories That’s why we rounded up the things every bookworm or aspiring bookworm needs in their life (besides, you know, a few hours of peace and quiet on a beach with a can’t-put-down read). Whether you’re a seasoned book lover looking to level up your at-home library or you’re newly obsessed with the hobby, we’ve got something for you.

Amazon

The ultimate reading pillow…

ICYMI: Human dog beds are currently having a moment on social media and this one from Amazon definitely has a similar vibe. This option is more versatile in that it’s shaped like a flexible pool float. You can fold it in countless different ways and place it wherever you need bolstering. The material also has a bubble texture for a massage effect. ({{dynamicPrice}}, Amazon)

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Peepers

A pair of reading glasses you’ll actually reach for…

Peepers are a go-to for their endless frame options that suit your face shape, color preferences, and eye-care needs — all without spending a ton of money. This clear pair of frames will go with just about anything and they even have blue-light protection. ($29, Peepers)

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Ban.do

A microwavable ceramic mug that’s too sweet to pass up…

You can never have too many. This colorful option from Ban.do has this “Book Person” graphic on both sides. It’s dishwasher-safe and has a lip base for easy stacking. It’ll hold up to 12 ounces of your favorite beverage and will make the perfect companion for getting you into the reading zone. ($14.95, Ban.do)

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Leather bookmark
Leatherology

A full-grain leather weight that lets you prop your book open...

In our eyes, this is the perfect gift for the chic reader in your life. It’s designed with a flexible center and has weights on the side that’ll keep the pages down. It’s especially helpful for those who frequently follow recipes from a cookbook. Just prop your book open, throw down your weight, and voilà — following those instructions just got that much easier. ($30+, Leatherology)

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Thestampbar via Etsy

A personalized library stamp that’ll make lending books easy…

This is the best $20ish I’ve ever spent and I love it when it comes to sharing my books and building out my collection. You can choose between a classic wooden stamp or a self-inking option. Not to mention, it’s super satisfying. All you need now are some library cards. ($28+, Thestampbar via Etsy)

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Rechargeable neck light
Amazon

A rechargeable neck light so you can read in bed at night…

Forget juggling a flashlight, bookmark, and hardcover all in one hand from bed. Just wrap this hands-free light around your neck, toggle the button on, and you’re set. It has three temperature light modes (yellow, white, and cool white). Plus, the comfy bendable device has a narrow beam angle — so you won’t have to worry about waking your partner while you use it. The battery lasts up to 80 hours, so you won’t have to recharge it constantly. ($21.99+, Amazon)

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Amazon

A book light that acts as a bookmark…

If you’re committed to your hard copies through and through, this portable book light is everything. It clips onto the cover, can hold a page, and has five brightness levels and three light colors to protect your eyesight. It’s the handiest gadget to keep on your bedside table or in your bag. Plug it into a USB port to recharge. ({{dynamicPrice}}, Amazon)

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Paper bookmarks
Amazon

Some colorful magnetic bookmarks…

You’ll get 10 paper magnets in this pack. Just clip them to your page and continue on your reading journey. These are great for anyone who likes to mark up their novels or memoirs while reading — they’re thin and small enough that you can clip multiples to your book without it getting weighed down or clunky. ($5.99, Amazon)

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Literie

A library-inspired candle so you can set the scene…

This soy- and coconut-wax candle from one of our go-to candle brands smells of paper and linen. It gives off major ‘all I want to do is curl up and read a book’ vibes. It’ll also make a wonderful gift for your constant book club host (or yourself). ($45, Literie)

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Fabric caddy
Amazon

A fabric caddy for anyone who loves to read on the couch at night…

Instead of leaving your book out to get lost under the cushions, attach this pocket holder onto your loveseat and throw your latest read right in. It’ll keep your pages protected and minimize the need to search every crevice. It works for Kindles and other e-readers, too. Plus, the pouch comes with two slots, so you can pull your charging cable through it to charge your devices easily. ($14.99, Amazon)

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Papier

A digital-free way to track your reading goals…

I’m constantly raving about Papier, and their reading journals are my latest obsession. Not only is the cover absolutely adorable, but it also has room for you to add your name or your initials. It has a plethora of spreads you can fill out, including book reviews and a reading wish list. ($38, Papier)

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Rifle Paper Co.

A reusable tote to hold your current stack…

Use it for trips to the library, a day of book shopping, or for toting around your everyday essentials. This tote from Rifle Paper Co. is made from a sturdy canvas and has some thick, heavy duty handles. The bookish design is adorable, too. ($26, Rifle Paper Co.)

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Modern, steel bookends
Food52

Modern, steel bookends for your shelf…

A necessity for building up any home library. These luxe ones are made from powder-coated steel, so you know they’re super sturdy. They make for a design-forward gift and will jazz up any shelf no matter the space. Choose from varying aesthetically pleasing colors and sizes based on your preferences. ($64+, Food52)

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Scratch-off poster

A book-related bucket list poster if you love a challenge…

Just scratch off a title on the poster every time you finish one. It has slots for 100 must-read books, like “Bridget Jones’s Diary” and “The Color Purple.” A poster that’ll bring you back to your childhood days is a win to us. ($15, Uncommon Goods)

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Walnut book holder
Amazon

A natural walnut book holder that’ll keep pages open for you...

This mini tool helps you hold the pages of your book open so you can be hands-free. It’s super lightweight and small enough to toss in your bag. All you have to do is slide your thumb on it and let the little handmade wings keep your book open. The smooth texture and ergonomic design means you won’t need to worry about hand cramps that come along with holding a hardcover. It’s available in five sizes so you can get one for yourself, for any kids in your life, grandparents, and more. ($9.99, Amazon)

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Bath caddy
Amazon

A caddy that’ll make reading in the tub not feel like a mini version of “Titanic”...

Made of 100% bamboo, this one has extendable handles and a nonslip pad so it won’t slide into the tub. It has special slots for books, candles, wineglasses, and your phone, so you can relax without getting bubbles all over your beloved paperback. ($42.95, Amazon)

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Kindle Paperwhite
Amazon

A Kindle for all travelers and binge readers…

I’m constantly wanting to travel with my books and I like to have options, which means I don't want to add weight to my suitcase with hard copies. If you travel a lot, a Kindle is majorly worth the investment. You can predownload a few options before your trip to have for the flight – and if you get through those, as long as you have Wi-Fi at your destination, you can always add more. And the built-in reading light? A must. ($149.99+, Amazon)

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Amazon

A Kindle holder for hands-free reading in bed…

Consider this the ultimate luxury. If you’re Kindle-obsessed, this goose-necked holder situation is everything you need and more. To use, just clip it onto your bedside table or bed frame. Add your Kindle in between the slots. You can adjust the stand to be right at your eye level so you can read in bed without having to hold the device. Then, use this remote to turn the page. Lazy reading days just got even lazier. ({{dynamicPrice}}, Amazon)

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