Bookcrossing: Analyzing its transformation in Russia

Abstract

The author investigates into the history and development of the bookcrossing social phenomenon and its spread in the countries of the world. He interprets the term of bookcrossing: Transfer (release) of the books already read by a person, to other people. The websites to track the routes of books (their journey), the quality, the data on donators and recipients: the international one – www.bookcrossing.com, and the Russian www.bookcrossing.ru, are named.

The stages of the website use are characterized. The Russian website provides the bookcrossing statistics, however, some people object this practice.

The donation forms accepted in Russia against the background of the U.S. bookcrossing rules conflicting with the Russian mentality are discussed. The author proposes several versions of the term translation into Russian (personally, he prefers “the book journey”). The author demonstrates the transformation of the bookcrossing in Russia: the books are left on special bookshelves in public spaces. The trend is emphasized: the books are no more supplied with notes comprising the review, link to a websites, etc. He substantiates the humanitarian principles and efficiency of the new forms of free transfer of books to people and institutions.