It’s the end of another year, and the gift-giving pressure is real. Some of us are shopping for loved ones, some are prepping for the annual book-club exchange, and some are coping with the stress in the most honorable way possible: buying gifts for ourselves. I salute this strategy—treat yourself! I celebrate Christmas, and with the current financial reality for me and most of my people, we agreed to scale back on exchanging presents this year. It’s a necessary evil, but I truly love to shop. Maybe that’s why hunting down the best gifts for readers this season was so fun.
Finding meaningful gifts is always satisfying, but I’m also a magpie at heart, endlessly drawn to clever little trinkets. So along with the big-impact items, I rounded up smaller delights that caught my eye. And if you’re not doing gifts this time of year, might I suggest setting tiny goals and rewarding yourself with one of these treats? It’s a practice I swear by—I wouldn’t have built the habit of wiping down the kitchen counter every night without bribing myself with bookmarks and water-bottle stickers.
Read on to discover the best gifts for readers in 2025!
Best Stocking Stuffers for Readers
These classy and sassy bookmarks are pretty enough to display even when they’re not holding your place. $4+
Image by V. Mal Creates via Etsy
The intersection of Swifties and readers is significant. Give this Life of a Book Girl bookmark to a book girl you love. $10
Image by Schepper Design via Etsy
This coin is so fun. Cut down on decision fatigue and let this token make the choices for you. $20
Image by Bookish Blue Line via Etsy
I love books, but I also love miniature things. You can have it all by customizing these little key chains, perfect for tucking in a stocking or keeping for yourself! $7+
Image by Lakeside Outlets via Etsy
Can’t have a holiday gift round-up without an ornament. This Date Due Ornament can rock perfectly on a bulletin board or mantle—no tree needed. $9
Best Gifts for Readers
Image by Hall of Summers via Etsy
As a librarian, I see this tabletop book stand as an excellent bit of passive programming, but even at home, I love this conversation starter of a present. $20
Image by Mafeeyi Giftland via Etsy
For the Booktoker or reading nook curator, these LED Light Bookshelf signs are personalized and powerful. $26+
Image by Glitter Cyber via Etsy
This beautiful piece of art would look perfect shining in the window of any reader. $31
Image by Candlini via Etsy
A bookstand can be a boon to a reader, whether by the fire, in the bathtub, or on the bedside table. The craftsmanship and fine wood of this Handcrafted Wooden Book Stand make a perfect gift. $59
Image by Huang Shop Store via Etsy
I’m sorry, this SECRET HOLLOWED-OUT BOOK SAFE makes me absolutely giddy. Hide a little treasure inside, or gift a super spy power with the book itself. $35
Image by Handcrafted By Stella via Etsy
Most readers love little tools to help them curate their libraries. Flesh out the cosplay by getting your would-be librarian their very own personalized book stamp. $10+
Hopefully, you’ve found something among these best gifts for readers that will be just right, whether it’s to give or to keep for yourself. You deserve it! Looking for more great gifts? Check out the rest of our holiday gift guide below. Happy shopping and happy reading!