Jólabókaflóe, (Book Flood), at the University of Cumbria.

A story about a collaboration between a university Professor and a university Chaplin, who are sharing the following example of uniting a university community to inspire others to think about their own book exchange.

One of the best compliments that anyone can pay me is to ask what books I am enjoying. I’m not alone, especially in an academic community where we are committed to improving and renewing our minds. So during a catch up after the inaugural lecture of one of our Professors, Amanda Taylor-Beswick, told me about her family tradition, a Christmas book exchange, I got really excited. What could be better than a book exchange? Jólabókaflóe, Amanda described, is an Icelandic tradition of gifting books on Christmas Eve - moments carved out for reading, sharing, and creating a ripple of warmth through the simple act of giving a book. So we decided to host a book flood as part of the chaplaincy yuletide events. We wrote to the university community, as outlined below:

As part of the chaplaincy lunchtime sessions we, Reverend Clare Shepherd and Professor Prof Amanda ML Taylor-Beswick , invite our University of Cumbria community to join us in a Book Flood, that we hope in future years to extend out to each of our chapels and across our university.

The winter season can feel quite challenging. Whatever our belief system, we can be surrounded by expectation of perfection. The perfect family, perfect presents, perfect parties. We suspect that what we are really looking for is so much simpler and more profound. We need friendship and connection. We need each other. We need to know that we are part of something bigger than ourselves.

What do you need to do to join in: students, faculty, and staff are invited to bring a book that you have read, wrapped if you can in some plain paper, with a message written about the book and why you chose to share it. In exchange, you are invited to pick up a book, that you too can enjoy over the Christmas vacation. Do join with us for a hot drink and connection. In a manner where each book becomes more than a gift. It becomes a conversation, a moment of stillness and reflection, and, above all, a symbol of belonging.

The book exchange will take place on Wednesday the 11th of December at 12.45 in the chapel on our Lancaster campus. Seasonal hot drinks and snacks will be available, please feel free to bring your lunch.

Clare and Amanda

? How to Do Jólabókaflóe ?

1. Choose a Book: pick a book that holds meaning for you, or one you think someone else would enjoy this Christmas season.

2. Wrap It Up: make it feel extra special! Wrap your book with care (think of it as wrapping a moment of comfort and connection).

3. Gift and Gather: share your book with someone on campus through bringing it along to the book exchange, and don’t forget to pick up a book in exchange.

4. Get Cozy: on Christmas Eve, regardless of your beliefs about Christmas traditions, cozy up with your gifted book, a warm drink, and a blanket. Let the world slow down as you turn the pages.

5. Share the Experience: reflect on your Jólabókaflóe moment with others. It’s not just about the book; it’s about fostering a sense of belonging and joy.

Happy Reading! ???