Asking guests to bring a book instead of a card is a thoughtful way to help build baby’s first library. Guests can choose a childhood favorite, a meaningful story, or a book they loved reading with their own family.
The wording can be simple, sentimental, playful, or themed. The main goal is to make the request clear without making it feel like an obligation.
Simple Wording
Books for Baby
Instead of a card, please bring a favorite children’s book to help build baby’s first library.
Or:
Help us build baby’s library
In place of a card, we’d love for you to bring a favorite children’s book.
Sweet and Sentimental Wording
A book is a gift that can be opened again and again.
Instead of a card, please bring a favorite children’s book and write a note inside for baby.
Or:
Help fill baby’s bookshelf with stories and love.
Please bring a favorite book in place of a card and add a little message for baby inside.
Short Wording for an Invitation Insert
If you’re using a separate insert, keep it brief:
Books for Baby
Please bring a favorite children’s book instead of a card.
A Story for Baby
Bring a book you love and leave a little note inside for baby.
For a floral shower, the Wildflower Download & Print Books for Baby Set includes coordinating pieces for the invitation and shower display.
Baby in Bloom Wording
For a wildflower or garden-inspired shower:
Help baby’s little library bloom
Instead of a card, please bring a favorite children’s book to help grow baby’s first collection of stories.
Or:
A little wildflower is about to bloom
Please bring a favorite book instead of a card and help us grow baby’s library.
Rhyming Wording
Just one little request, we hope it’s not hard:
Please bring a book instead of a card.
Or:
Instead of a card, we have one small request:
Bring a book you love and think baby will like best.
Can Guests Bring Used Books?
Absolutely. If gently loved books are welcome, make that clear:
New or well-loved, either will do—please bring a favorite book from you.
This can make the request feel more relaxed and accessible.
Ask Guests to Write a Note Inside
Adding a personal message turns each book into a keepsake.
You could say:
Please write a note inside the cover so baby will always know who chose the story.
Or:
Add a little message inside for baby to read someday.
Should You Say “Instead of a Card”?
Yes. Clear wording avoids confusion about whether guests are expected to bring both.
For example:
Instead of a greeting card, please bring a favorite children’s book.
If the book itself is meant to replace the shower gift, say that separately.
Where Should the Wording Go?
You can place the request:
- On the invitation
- On a separate insert
- On the shower website
A separate insert is often the cleanest option if the invitation already includes registry, RSVP, or diaper raffle details.
Add a Books for Baby Station
At the shower, create a simple drop-off area with:
- A basket or small shelf
- A Books for Baby sign
- Pens for notes
- A few coordinating flowers or decorations
The Wildflower Download & Print Books for Baby Set can help tie the request into a Baby in Bloom shower.
Keep It Friendly
The best wording feels like an invitation rather than a demand. If you want the request to feel especially optional, use phrases such as:
If you’d like to participate
We’d love for you to bring
Please consider bringing
The goal is simply to create a little library filled with stories chosen by the people who already care about baby.
Browse Iris & Dill baby shower stationery and celebration details