Amsterdam-based company Ruilbank created a clip that allows book sharing in public parks. The red clip attaches itself to benches. This way, people can leave reading material for the next sitter or park visiter. The design allows for social interaction through the exchange of reading material. Not only can people connect, they can also improve their literary skills and broaden their minds. Furthermore, this initiative hopes to encourage cultural trade in communal spaces, and to divert the community away from their computers.
Reading material will be provided by the company on a daily basis until September 28, 2013. However, visitors are highly encouraged to leave their own books, magazines and article print-outs behind. Nine benches across the city of Amsterdam will be fitted with the book sharing clips.
Photo Credits: designboom, ruilbankamsterdam.nl
Book-Sharing Benches
Amsterdam Citizens Connect and Share Reading Material with These Red Clips
Trend Themes
1. Book-sharing - Opportunity for creating book-sharing platforms to foster community connection and stimulate reading culture.
2. Public Space Collaboration - Potential for collaborative initiatives in public spaces to encourage social interaction and cultural exchange.
3. Offline Engagement - Opportunity to provide offline engagement experiences and divert individuals from digital technologies.
Industry Implications
1. Publishing - Disruptive innovation opportunity for publishers to explore new ways of distributing and sharing reading materials.
2. Urban Design - Opportunity for urban designers to incorporate book-sharing elements in public spaces to enhance community engagement.
3. Community Services - Potential for community organizations to establish book-sharing initiatives as a means of fostering social connections and knowledge sharing.