Question 1

How do credits work?

Accepted Answer

Every book you add to the pool earns you 1 credit. You spend 1 credit when a book request you make is approved. Re-listing a book you've finished earns another credit.

Question 2

Do I keep ownership of my books?

Accepted Answer

Once a book is handed over, ownership moves with it. The new reader can keep it on their shelf, lend it on, or relist it back into the community.

Question 3

How does handover work?

Accepted Answer

After a request is approved, you and the other reader chat in-app to agree on a pickup, drop-off, or meet-up that suits you both.

Question 4

What happens if a request is declined?

Accepted Answer

Nothing — your credit isn't spent unless the request is approved. You're free to request a different book.

Question 5

Can I exchange children's books?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. Children's books are some of the most-loved items on BookExchange. Add any book you're done with.

Question 6

Is BookExchange available near me?

Accepted Answer

BookExchange is growing across South Africa. The more readers in your area, the more books to discover — invite your friends and family to grow it locally.

Question 7

What happens if no books match my search?

Accepted Answer

Add the book to your wishlist. You'll get a notification the moment a matching book is listed.

Question 8

How does the wishlist work?

Accepted Answer

Your wishlist tracks books you'd love to read. When a member nearby lists a matching title or author, BookExchange notifies you instantly.

Frequently asked questions