When asking yourself about something to do near me in Denver with a group of friends or family, consider
BookGive
Why BookGive is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
BookGive is a remarkable nonprofit organization in Denver dedicated to fostering a lifelong love of reading by distributing free new and nearly new books across metro Denver. Situated in the historic Regis 66 service station, BookGive operates a vibrant Free Book Room where community members can browse and take books at no cost, making it an inviting and inspiring place to meet up with friends and fellow book lovers. The organization’s mission strongly emphasizes literacy as a human right, creating a supportive environment for readers of all ages and backgrounds. Beyond just book distribution, BookGive hosts engaging events and relies heavily on a passionate volunteer community that manages book donations, sorting, packaging, and outreach. The space buzzes with energy as volunteers and visitors alike gather around a shared passion for literature, making it a warm and communal spot that encourages connection and cultural enrichment. BookGive has successfully donated over 400,000 books since 2020, reflecting its impactful role in promoting education and enjoyment of reading throughout Denver.
Here's what people think of BookGive
As of recent, BookGive holds a 4.8-star rating based on 24 reviews.
User reviews consistently praise BookGive for its inspiring mission and the welcoming atmosphere of the Free Book Room. Many positive reviews highlight the organization’s effective distribution of high-quality books, the friendly and passionate volunteer staff, and the community-oriented events that make BookGive more than just a charity but a social hub for book enthusiasts. Several reviewers also applaud the organization’s responsiveness to local needs and its dedication to literacy as a fundamental right. On the other hand, some critiques focus on logistical challenges such as limited operating hours or occasional difficulty in book selection due to high demand. A few mention that during peak times, the space can feel crowded, impacting the browsing experience. Despite these minor limitations, the overall sentiment remains highly favorable, with users expressing strong support for BookGive’s mission and the positive impact it has had on the Denver community. The reviews conclude that BookGive is a cherished resource, successfully uniting book lovers and volunteers in a shared cause to spread literacy and joy through books.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Kelly
Service to the community: A+ -- They have a "store" where you can get books for free (please donate - there's a machine right there in the lobby). They also distribute books to numerous locations throughout the metro area (day care, adult living to name two). Your book donations: A+ -- They "rescue" books and put them to good use. They even partner with another entity that tries to salvage imperfect books. So don't worry about your book's condition - drop it off (they even have a drop box for after hours). Volunteering: Incomplete -- They recently hired a managing director, so maybe things have improved. But when I reached out to volunteer it took 2-3 months to hear back. As an on-site volunteer, you can sort through donations or fulfill delivery orders. Volunteering was kinda fun - in as much as I built stories about the people based on the books they donated. With one exception, the other volunteers were polite; but if you're not a middle-aged mom you're going to be limited on topics. Generally, despite the tasks being fairly labor intensive (i.e. mindless), there was little to no conversation during the volunteer sessions (except during break - then books were discussed, naturally). If your volunteering goal is primarily to give time to a good cause, then this might be the place for you. If you want some quality socal interaction, then you might want to look elsewhere. (Note: "shifts" are first come / first serve on their sign-up system, so you'll likely see different people each time). Grade F experience: One "station manager" (a volunteer position) was petty and insulting to me 5 minutes into one of my shifts. Typical "control freak asserting power" episode. I didn't tolerate that when I was working, I'm certainly not going to tolerate it when I'm volunteering. So I walked out. Conflict resolved (or so I thought). I then recieved a nasty e-mail from a generic BookGive account telling me I was banned from volunteering. And I no longer had access to the sign-up website, and I was dropped from the newsletter. I did follow up with the founder and later the new director, but that was 2-3 months ago and I still appear to be banned (i.e. I don't get the newsletter, which is the link to signing up). If you want to avoid my experience, then don't sign up for a shift when Jerrilynn is the station manager. Ugh.
Juliet Wells
Free books! Pick up a few, or donate the ones you don't need anymore. Great organization that donates books to schools and hospitals.
Carole Fuller
I went to BookGive today to stock up our neighborhood birdhouse library. The place is amazing! The people are very kind and helpful, and the book selection is extensive. I found books that would suit every age group and they have a large variety of subject matter. The books are in good condition and I think my neighbors will be thrilled! (I sure was). Thank you BookGive, please keep up the good work!!!! This place ROCKS ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐, Carole J. Fuller
Pat Lucero
I read a lot. I love to recycle my books. This place is like a little free library on steroids. The volunteers here are always friendly. The books are in excellent condition.
Elizabeth McCune
Free books are always great in a world full of electronics. Shut the TV off, put down your phone and read. With free books there's no excuse!
How to reach BookGive
None
Website: None
Why BookGive may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at BookGive with your friends? BookGive offers a unique and meaningful environment for group gatherings, especially if your circle shares a love for books, community, and making a positive impact. Unlike typical social venues, BookGive combines the cozy charm of a bookstore atmosphere with the vibrant energy of a nonprofit dedicated to spreading literacy. Hosting a meetup here means more than just enjoying a physical space together — it’s about joining a shared mission to promote reading and access to free books throughout Denver. This shared purpose creates a natural, thoughtful conversation starter, making your time together both enjoyable and enriching. Friends and family get to connect over books, volunteer opportunities, or community events while also contributing to something bigger than themselves. For groups looking for a meaningful outing that blends socializing with community service, BookGive is the ideal place to rally. The warm, welcoming ambiance combined with active participation in literacy advocacy makes for a fulfilling day out for all ages and interests.
What activities can you enjoy at BookGive, and why is it perfect for a group meetup? First and foremost, BookGive features the Free Book Room — a treasure trove where visitors can browse and select from thousands of free books. This makes it a fantastic activity for groups who want to explore together, discuss their finds, and choose reads to share afterward. The act of book hunting turns into a shared adventure that can spark lively conversations and friendly recommendations. Beyond simply browsing, visitors can participate in sorting and packing books to be donated to community organizations, which adds an interactive, hands-on experience for groups wanting to volunteer together. This element of collaboration is great for building camaraderie and making memories that go beyond entertainment. For book lovers or those curious about literacy activism, BookGive also hosts special events, readings, and workshops that your group can attend or help run. The combination of cozy, bookish charm and purposeful activity makes the space rare and special for meetups.
What makes BookGive a standout venue for groups interested in community involvement? BookGive is not just a space but a hub where people passionate about literacy come together to affect real change. The organization prioritizes volunteers in many roles, from book attendants who process donations to delivery runners who distribute books throughout Denver. Groups visiting can easily get involved in a volunteer shift, which is an especially rewarding way to bond and contribute. BookGive fosters a supportive atmosphere where volunteers feel appreciated and part of a community, enhancing the group dynamic through shared purpose. Engaging as volunteers offers a deeply satisfying experience that transcends usual meetups, especially for groups wanting to give back together. Additionally, with a rating of 4.8 from 24 reviews, the high satisfaction underscores BookGive’s reputation as a well-run and beloved local hub for literacy and community connection.
How can BookGive accommodate varying group interests and needs? Whether your group consists of avid readers, active volunteers, or simply people looking for a cozy, welcoming spot, BookGive offers diverse experiences. The space itself is comfortable and inviting, located in a converted 1940s-era service station, giving it character and nostalgia that adds to the ambiance. For groups who enjoy structured activities, BookGive provides volunteer roles tailored to different skill sets and energy levels, such as sorting books, managing donation intake, or helping with event coordination. For those preferring a less structured social outing, browsing the Free Book Room or simply relaxing and chatting amid stacks of books creates a peaceful, bookish atmosphere. Its flexible environment supports both quiet time and community engagement, allowing groups to customize their visit based on interests and group energy. The variety of potential activities ensures that everyone finds something enjoyable, making it an inclusive destination for friends or family.
Why is BookGive more than just a place to get free books? At its core, BookGive operates on the belief that literacy is a basic human right and works tirelessly to make books accessible to all. Since 2020, the organization has donated over 400,000 books throughout the Denver metro area, demonstrating its profound commitment and impact. This mission infuses the venue with meaningful energy that visitors can feel and contribute to. When your group rallies here, you are joining a larger movement that values education, equality, and community upliftment. Beyond the Free Book Room and volunteer opportunities, BookGive organizes impactful events, collaborates with community partners, and has developed a strong volunteer culture that makes every visitor feel part of a dedicated network. This deeper purpose gives every group visit a sense of significance and collective accomplishment, unlike a typical meetup spot focused solely on leisure.
What should groups expect when they volunteer or attend events at BookGive? Volunteers at BookGive step into a well-structured yet welcoming environment where their efforts are genuinely valued. The organization offers roles with clear responsibilities such as helping process book donations, filling requests from partner organizations, and supporting event execution. BookGive’s leadership takes great care to ensure volunteers feel connected and appreciated, enhancing the overall group experience by fostering teamwork and positive interactions. Events hosted by BookGive might include book drives, literacy advocacy workshops, or community reading programs — all designed to engage the group meaningfully. This dynamic between social activity and service creates memorable experiences that groups can bond over. Whether your meetup aims to be a quiet afternoon of browsing or an active day of volunteering, BookGive accommodates and enriches both.
How accessible and convenient is BookGive for group visits? BookGive is conveniently located in Denver near Regis University’s Northwest Campus, making it accessible for local groups and visitors alike. The converted service station setting provides ample space for gathering, browsing, and cooperative activities. The physical setup supports groups easily moving through the Free Book Room and volunteer areas without feeling cramped, fostering interaction and comfort. Additionally, BookGive maintains flexible volunteering schedules and open hours that allow groups to coordinate their visit around other social plans. For groups coming from different parts of Denver or beyond, the location’s popularity and reputation make it a recognizable and pleasant destination. Its supportive staff and volunteer coordinators assist in organizing group visits or shifts, streamlining the experience for larger parties.
How can a group best prepare before visiting BookGive? To maximize your meetup, it’s advisable to communicate in advance with BookGive’s volunteer coordinators, especially if your group intends to volunteer or attend a special event. This preparation ensures your party can be accommodated smoothly and provides insight into what volunteer roles might best suit your group’s size and preferences. Individuals or groups wanting to browse can simply stop by during open hours and enjoy exploring the Free Book Room. Bringing reusable bags or boxes is helpful for those planning to take home books. For volunteer-oriented groups, comfortable clothing and the ability to lift and move boxes (usually 20-40 lbs) may be necessary. Planning ahead by reviewing BookGive’s website or reaching out with questions can enhance the group experience and help everyone get the most out of their visit.
What lasting benefits can a group expect from meeting at BookGive? A meetup at BookGive combines fun, education, community service, and social connection in a way that few venues can match. Groups leave not only with new books but often with a deeper appreciation for literacy and community efforts. For friends and family, the shared experience of volunteering or exploring books together strengthens bonds and creates meaningful memories. The knowledge that your time contributes to a nonprofit actively distributing hundreds of thousands of books adds a sense of pride and fulfillment. Many groups return to BookGive repeatedly, drawn by the warm community and evolving opportunities to support literacy in Denver. The positive energy and impact extend beyond the visit, offering lasting inspiration and connection for all who rally there. For any group seeking a purposeful, joyful, and inclusive place to gather, BookGive stands out as a top choice.