SantaThing 2020!

It's that time of year again—this is our FOURTEENTH annual SantaThing!

Important links
- SantaThing page
- SantaThing Help/FAQs
- Blog post
- Donations thread

You can edit your SantaThing entry at any time by going to the SantaThing page, and scrolling down a bit to "Your SantaThings." Each entry has an "(edit)" link to the far right of that line. Click on the member name next to a SantaThing profile to read about their preferences and leave suggestions!

Any questions? Post them in this thread, see the SantaThing Help page for FAQs, or email me directly at kate@librarything.com.

I was just wondering when SantaThing would open for the season and here it is!

This is my most favorite time of year!

>2 RidgewayGirl: HUZZAH!

>2 RidgewayGirl: IT'S HAPPENING!!

>5 katemcangus: I'm all signed up!

Oh, fun! I'll join in again this year. Won't do the whole set up until the weekend, though.

>1 katemcangus: I do not see Amazon as a choice for printed books this year -- only for e-books. Are you dropping Amazon as a vendor for printed books?

>8 sallylou61: We wrote about it in the blog post, but yes. (Pasting the paragraph from the blog, rather than rephrasing):

This year we’re focusing on indie bookstores. The pandemic has been a disaster for independent bookstores, even as it sent Amazon sales to new heights. So we picked five of our favorites indies from around the United States. You can still order Kindle and Nook ebooks, and we have Book Depository for international orders.

>9 ablachly: How will that work for other countries? My concern is shipping will cost more.

(Sorry, going to read the blog post now.)

ETA: I see. Book Depository for international orders, then? How does the shipping work via Book Depository? Thanks.

Except that Book Depository is owned by Amazon...
Although I understand there aren't many other global alternatives.

Left Bank Books is awesome

I love this!! I participated a couple of times and had so much fun!!
Every year I tell myself I'm going to save up for this but unfortunately, it seems to sneak up on me and the last few years I have been unable to participate. But I do love reading about everyone's choices and such!! Thank you for doing this!!

>11 ScarletBea: There's Better World Books; they have a lot of used books but they do have new as well. Plus they donate books and raise money for literacy

Yay! Santathing!

Though I think I'll pass this year. There's bookshops in my own country that need support, too.

>10 LibraryCin: Right, international orders will use Book Depository, which has free shipping worldwide.

And Amazon will still be used for Kindle e-book orders.

I think that in the past we were only supposed to order new books -- no used books. Perhaps I did not look carefully enough, but I did not see any information re ordering used books this year, and some of the bookstores sell both new and old books. Are we supposed to mention on our request form which kind of books we want? (I have already requested new books only on my form.)

>17 sallylou61: That's in the FAQ, but yes, we're saying new books only. Stock changes too much to count on used books, and some members might not want them!

* Do not select used books. LibraryThing has nothing against used books, but there's no way to guarantee prices or availability. Always base your selections on the pricing for new copies.

>16 ablachly: Thank you!

Cute idea.

I love any and all books so I might give this a try.

>9 ablachly: That's a really nice thing to do. Indie bookstores are great.

Is there a reason bookshop.org wasn't chosen as one of the options? This isn't a complaint! Just a question.

>22 RidgewayGirl:

As staff said in reporting this question: "Insert Tim's diatribe here."

IMHO, Bookshop is as much a problem as a solution. It irritates me that so many people think they're a non-profit or a service of the ABA. They're a for-profit that has a deal with the ABA.

Today they are cozy with indies and give them large commissions. Amazon used to give big commissions too. Amazon cut them back year by year as affiliates became less important in getting and retaining customers. I don't think Bookshop will be as helpful to indies once they've got size and become many reader's first port of call. Bookstores need to understand that they're basically selling their customers to Bookshop. Borders did this too, once, allowing Amazon to do all their online orders; it literally killed them.

I'm also concerned about staffing. Right now bookstores are fully or partially closed. Shipping out orders is one of the few things their employees can do--one of the few reasons not to fire them. But Bookshop replaces the bookstore's order process entirely. The orders aren't filled at the bookstore, but at Bookshop's rapidly growing Amazon-like fulfillment centers. What, then are bookstores to do with their shipping workers? They're going to fire them, obviously; businesses don't keep people around who have nothing to do. Of course, someone somewhere is going to ship that book, but I don't see the transfer of jobs from many local bookstores to Bookshop as a net positive for society.

>23 timspalding: Thank you for that informative and useful response!

I've not done this before but am interested. I just want to be certain that I'm understanding correctly. When we sign up we choose the amount we are willing to spend on books for another participant and we complete our wish list. We are then matched with another person for that same amount and are given their wish list and we shop for them from one of the vendors listed. Is that correct? Do we give general ideas for the wish list or specific books? Any extra light you can shed on this for a first timer is appreciated! 📚💖

>25 TsarinaTyna: you pick the amount that you want picked for yourself. Then you are matched with someone and you pick their amount of books that they want.

Are you matched up with people who want like amounts?

>27 TsarinaTyna: As I understand it, each participant pays for the books they receive. Another person will pick them for you, staying below the limit that you set and paid for. You will pick books for someone else, and those books will be paid by the money that they set aside.

>28 Kanarthi: this is correct. For example you could go for the $30 price amount and get matched with someone who picked $15.

>27 TsarinaTyna: you will get your $30.00 and they will get their $15.00 worth.

>27 TsarinaTyna: Last year it was not necessarily even. I'd done a larger amount--$35 or $40. I picked for someone who had paid $15, and $5 of that was the postage, so I only had $10 to spend. Every book under $10 I could find from the independent bookstore she'd chosen was already in her library. I spent days trying to find a single book. With the help of a friend, I was finally able to find one which matched her criteria.

I do hope that people will choose to spend at least $20 so those picking will at least have $15 to spend at these stores where the postage eats part of the amount paid.

Thank you all so much this makes much more sense now! I was concerned that I'd be paired with someone who may want more than I was able to spend!

so the people who have already commented are possible Santees. Why then are they asking for recommendation in comments (tho it is fun, not sure if Im giving them tips for them to buy or receive) sorry really new to this, I am thrilled you picked Kings English. I lived in SLC a few years and KE and KRCL radio and the community around it save my life!

>33 cindydavid4: Comments and recommendations are always welcome. People are sometimes Santa for a person who wants books in a genre they are not familiar with. Though the staff do try to match you with a similar library it doesn't always work out. You also might be picking for a child, partner or friend who isn't on LT .

Plus it is just fun when comments open after Christmas to see more books that you might love :)

It says on the Blog Post and is repeated here that Book Depository is for international orders. Does that mean a United State recipient should choose a different provider? (Or just that if you live elsewhere you have to use Book Depository?)

Will the holiday card exchange be happening this year as well? Or does that start later? I can't remember. Mail is going to be slow this year, for sure.

So I wanted to edit my post, and tried to submit, but I already paid and the link says submit and pay. If I submit, am I charged again?

>37 cindydavid4: No, it just updates your post if you've already paid.

grazie

>35 Capybara_99: I live in the U.S. and was able to select Book Depository. If I had been unable to do so, I probably would have not participated this year. I've had bad experiences trying to pick books for others who chose one of the independent bookstores. They simply don't have some of the things in stock and cannot guarantee delivery before Christmas.

>40 thornton37814: Thanks

>36 WeeTurtle: I was wondering too.

Hi somehow, I have 2 entries but I only paid for one. My internet was having issues so that might be why.

>43 InsightsintoBooks: Please don't fret: we'll take care of the duplicate entries!

>36 WeeTurtle: The Card Exchange will be happening this year! It always launches after SantaThing signups close, so stay tuned.

>44 katemcangus: thx!

>45 kristilabrie: Looking forward to it! Maybe start it a little earlier than previous years due to Covid delays?

>47 Keith_Ldn: We purposely start the Card Exchange after SantaThing signups to avoid overlap, since ST is our "main event". We'll start as soon as we can when signups close. :) Thanks for your patience!

On a personal note, I certainly don't mind getting cards a little later than usual (it typically happens even in normal years, because holidays, but I suspect this year might see more delays).

I'm a card fiend so I might pitch in more cards this year, especially as I needed some help when it came to actual SantaThing. I don't mind sending overseas so I like to jump in each year.

Oops! I inadvertently signed up for Santa twice. One for $50 and one for $40 ( a lot more in Australian dollars) May I delete the $50 one.
Since becoming a pensioner (stinking GFC of 08 finally caught up with my monies) I have to watch my pennies.

Guido.

PS. Should I contact "kristilabrie" or just cancel the payment at the PayPal end?

>50 guido47: We'll take care of it, Guido!

I've been doing SantaThing for over a decade I think(!) for myself and my children, but this is the first year my kid has her own LibraryThing username and her own library.

How do I sign up to make sure that she's the recipient and her library is linked to her signup? Do I login to her account and click "for you" as a recipient? If I do that, how can I pay from my PayPal account (since a 7-year-old obviously doesn't have one)?

Thanks in advance!

(And in fact, I inadvertently asked my questions from my kid's account instead of my own at username sahra. Whoops.)

>52 sushiguineapig: you can go to https://www.librarything.com/santathing_giftpay.php and pick the donation you want her to have. Once you get the gift code sign into her profile. Fill out the form and press I have a gift code and put it in. Or you can just sign up through her account. Both ways would work.

>53 mellymel171328: mellymel171328: Where is the "I have a gift code"? Is it on the second page? If I sign up through her account (and I assume click "for you" as a recipient), how do I pay from my PayPal account rather than her non-existent account? Thanks!

>54 sushiguineapig: correct. You fill out her form and push save and pay. On the second page there is a place to click that says "I have a gift code" and the you press save and pay. Even if you do it through her account you will still be able to use your paypal to pay.

This is my first time doing Santa Thing, so I have a slightly premature question about comments. Is it considered good form to select a book that someone suggested in a comment, or is it better form to avoid those suggestions, to maximize the new book ideas? Do people have thoughts about this?

>56 Kanarthi: it isn't frowned upon at all. That is why they are put there.:)

>56 Kanarthi: The comments add ideas, but there's nothing stopping you from adding your own comments about other books you thought about as well, when making a pick.

I think once I left a note saying that I "really wanted to get you book X but it was (wildly) out of the price range."

how do i become a santee

how can i request what book i like im confused on how to become one.

>60 VinceBeadoy:

You register here: https://www.librarything.com/santathing.php, selecting how much you want to pay and filling in your address and preferences.

>61 AnnieMod:
i see thanks

>14 Tropical-Library: Yes, I shop there when I can!! :)

I saw the PayPal link but it looked like I was going to be wiring money to myself. I was terribly confused. Do we pay now or wait until we have a designated santee? I just don't want to screw this up or jump the gun.

You pay now. These money will be used from your Santa to select your books. When your Santee is assigned to you, you will be selecting books for them using the money they paid.

>64 caslater83: Think of it this way: you are buying the books that someone else will pick out for you. You will pick out books for someone else, who has already paid for those.

Thank you both!

Somehow I've accidentally signed up twice. Can the LT elves fix this please.

>68 calm: Absolutely, we'll take care of it!

Every year I have "that one book" that I recommend to half the people that sign up. This year is no different 🤦🏽‍♀️🤷🏽‍♀️😄

which is it? My two lately have been Hamnet and Vanishing Half

I am a sucker for Inkheart so I suggest it a lot.

>71 cindydavid4: Follow Me to Ground by Sue Rainsford

I have extended SantaThing signup to 6pm EST. Basically, tomorrow is a packed day for me, and we're "down" a staff member—the employee who does the social media and member communication. So closing it at noon would be a rush, and we wouldn't be able to move to the next stage immediately anyway.

Good news: More time to sign up for SantaThing, and square up on donations!

If there is anyone debating on needing a donation. Please feel free to ask in the donation thread. I have a couple donations in need of a home. :) https://www.librarything.com/topic/326413

I still have a couple donations waiting for home. Please feel free to ask if you are in need. https://www.librarything.com/topic/326413

Oh. Missed the deadline.

Happy SantaThing to the participants!

>77 aspirit:

If you're still interested, message me. It's likely that we have to cut out a duplicate--I know Kate has her eyes on a few. This will open a spot. I'll know tomorrow.

I'm confused. I got an email with the name of the person I am buying for but where is their entry?

Nevermind I found it.

My person didn't pick a store.
Store: ()

>80 dianeham: I have this problem as well!!

We'll get it sorted.

>82 timspalding: YAY! thank you!

I would welcome some advice for my Santee, just to make sure I'm on the right track. I don't have children of my own and sometimes struggle with selecting books for my niece, who is the same age as my Santee.

https://www.librarything.com/santathing_thing.php?id=352

I could really use some advice for my Santee, too. They've requested books about things I know absolutely nothing about, and I have a big budget to work with!

https://www.librarything.com/santathing_thing.php?id=303

nvm

nvm

>87 cindydavid4:

Please do not post here, post in the comments section in the links above. That way the Santee cannot see it until Christmas (unless they use another account - trivial but still requires them to do something and not just open a thread) while here in the thread they can see the recommendations early :)

Plus if you post them there, the final selection can use these as well if they need to replace a book due to availability or something else.

Just to clarify (it’s my first time doing this), is the shipping fee already subtracted from the total I see, or do I need to assume $5 of that amount will go to shipping?

One of my peoples entries does show a store?

Oh boy! Suggestion time! *clap clap clap clap*

I did my shopping. I had SOOO much fun! I hope she enjoys reading them as much as I enjoyed picking them out!

>1 katemcangus: How "in stock" does "in stock" need to be? BookPeople has a category of book marked "Usually Arrives in 5-7 Days", which I'd like to be able to include unless it's too risky or too slow.

I notice that as of right this moment there's one person still "unpicked". I'd be glad to help out here if you'd like.

So frustrating: I've got a nice long-list of possible gifts for my Santee, but I can't get any further to see which are actually within the budget, because the Indielite server seems to be down at the moment. Time for a coffee!

>89 MisterMeowzer: I was wondering the same thing.

>80 dianeham: >81 genesisdiem: I'm having the same issue. The store is ( ). Did the person not pick a store? Or is something not working quite right?

I would love some suggestions for my Santee, as their interests are ones I’m not familiar with at all.

https://www.librarything.com/santathing_thing.php?id=216

Ok guys, I'm really going to need some help here! My Santee has left their Book Tastes quite blank.

https://www.librarything.com/santathing_thing.php?id=456

>98 bettyetters:. I left a suggestion on the santee's page. Hope this helps.

>95 thorold: I'm still not able to connect to the Indielite site for Riverrun bookstore - are others having problems, or could it be that it's not letting me in because I'm connecting from outside the US?

> 99 -- I left a suggestion for you. Good luck.

I am seriously going to need some suggestions for my Santee their book genre is completely out of my area. I looked at the LT suggestions several of them are on backorder.

My Santee is. https://www.librarything.com/santathing_thing.php?id=171

>100 jburlinson: Thank you!

I posted a link to my Amazon wish list on my Santee page, can someone please check and see if it works. >82 timspalding:
>69 katemcangus: or anyone else.

Just a few questions relating to Powell's specifically -- the used price is prominent and the new price much smaller and further down on the page, but I assume we go by the new book price?

Also, can we toss in a few bucks to cover an overrun? $30 is a hard price point to hit with trade paperbacks all coming in at a few dollars over $15, which leaves me working toward the smallest overrun possible, but it will still be a few dollars.

>102 jburlinson: Thanks so much!

>107 RidgewayGirl:
I noticed a few people looked at their bookstore to get estimated prices on the books they liked to choose a price point to pay into SantaThing, and I think that's a great idea. I wish I'd done that. I'll try to remember to mention it as a best practice for next year in the SantaThing launch thread.

>109 pammab: Oh, that's a good idea. I feel like I should have done that, too.

>99 sangreal: I'm not sure I have any suggestions, but if it helps, and I'm really stuck, I look at their "Favourites" (if they have any) or their highest rated books. This one still looks a bit tricky, though. Hopefully someone can help!

I'm 98 cents over. Am I remembering correctly that +/- $1.00 is usually ok? Or should I try again for a different combination? Thanks!

ETA: I found something I could substitute to keep me only 6 cents over.

How are the Santees chosen? I got the same person I got last year and as a result I am not really feeling very motivated about SantaThing this year

>80 dianeham: I'll be in touch, Diane.

>81 genesisdiem: I'll let you know as well, genesisdiem.

>90 chessley: I'll be in touch once it's sorted.

>97 thornton37814: Your Santee's store has been updated.

>95 thorold: >101 thorold: No-one else seems to be complaining, and the people who run Indielite say it's up and running, so the issue is probably at my end. I added a gift for my Santee anyway, but put a couple of reserve choices in the comment as fallbacks because I couldn't check availability.

I'm completely stumped by my Santee this year (I don't recognize their fave author or know anything about these kinds of books...their DNW is what I usually read, lol) and would appreciate some ideas from other folks! Their library only has 6 books, so I don't have much to go off of. :/

https://www.librarything.com/santathing_thing.php?id=221

>114 katemcangus: I was just going to pick for them and use Powell's. I assume they have the largest collection.

>93 pammab: I'd also like to know if we can include books from BookPeople that are "out of stock - usually arrives in 5-7 days"

What is recommended when your Santee has blank tastes and an empty library?
https://www.librarything.com/santathing_thing.php?id=194

>122 michael.h88:

Do you have a favorite book? A favorite genre? A favorite author? Your Santee will learn about them as well - if they had not specified preferences, use your own ;) I'd mix the genres a bit just in case they do not like a specific genre but... just be creative.

>122 michael.h88: I've left a private message on your Santee's profile, letting them know that their Santa might like a bit more information. Fingers crossed they provide a Goodreads link or add a bit more about their book tastes.

Otherwise, as >123 AnnieMod: suggested, favorite titles from a variety of genres are a good idea. You could also go with recent releases that aren't bestsellers—a favorite smaller press or the latest Penguin Classic titles, e.g.—as those might be less likely to be on the Santee's radar.

>122 michael.h88: I never understand why this is a thing. I guess just go to the chosen bookstore & find a popular, highly rated, recent bestseller at their price & hope they like it.

>122 michael.h88: Santee left a relevant comment about tastes!

>122 michael.h88: I usually suggest books I really love

>111 LibraryCin: Thanks for the suggestions.

>80 dianeham: Your Santee's store has been added.

My Santee is also missing a store..

>90 chessley: Your Santee's store has been updated!

>129 katemcangus: Thanks! I'm done. Willing to lend a hand where needed.

Was there an answer about books that are backordered or have as shipping time?

I know in the past I've gotten books in two shipments, but I'm not sure about backorder.

I would love some suggestions please, my taste in non-fiction isn't quite what my Santee is after: https://www.librarything.com/santathing_thing.php?id=438

Thanks to those who made suggestions for my Santee!

If folks wouldn't mind making suggestions on my own SantaThing, that would be great! I've gotten so many excellent suggestions in addition to what I've received in previous STs!!
https://www.librarything.com/santathing_thing.php?id=462

>134 SouthernKiwi: -- I've left a suggestion. Good luck!

Whoops, I tried to make a suggestion for >122 michael.h88:, but realized I was looking at their own library and not their santee's. So this is me deleting that particular comment!

Meanwhile, thanks to those who have replied on mine! Although I'd love some more specific suggestions...

Still wondering if shipping has been deducted from the amount it says Santa has to spend or if we need to aim for $5 less than that amount.

Can I get some help with suggestions please? It seems every book I think of has already been read by my Santee. Thank you!

https://www.librarything.com/santathing_thing.php?id=62

To my Santa, sorry it took so long. I've updated my tastes and preferences!

Okay, $5 is now being deducted from all stores. It was not being deducted from the indies.

I could have sworn that my santee had entered a store yesterday, but today when I look, there is none there. They seem to have updated their page, so I suppose the store got lost then.

>142 andejons: Aha! You found the bug. Confirmed that if you edit your SantaThing entry your store gets stripped. Working on it, thanks.

Well, nuts. Now I'm way over since $5 was just removed from my santee's budget. I can't get closer that $6.05 under, and they're only getting one paperback for their $30. Any suggestions as to what to do?

>144 RidgewayGirl:. Link to your Santee page?

For those of you whose Santee's stores went missing: they should be back now! Thanks to andejons for identifying the source of the bug! (And of course to librarythingtim for fixing said bug).

I'd love some suggestions from the group... my Santee has nothing in their library, so I'm feeling a bit overwhelmed and worried I'll get them something they already have.

https://www.librarything.com/santathing_thing.php?id=150

>145 Capybara_99: https://www.librarything.com/santathing_thing.php?id=392, although I was hoping for more general advice, than specific book ideas. I have more than enough book options, but all of them come in at at least $15.

>144 RidgewayGirl: Dammit, me too :-(

Thank you all for the suggestions made on my Santees page - and great to get some support for the one author I did have in mind :-)

>148 RidgewayGirl: Hard to know what general advice one could offer, other than: look for a cheap second book; or abandon your first choice and then pick two cheaper. Which I am sure already occurred to you.

I often end up not picking the one I think is the very best in order to work with the financial strictures.

This year I used things which showed me similar books to those I was thinking of, both here on Library Thing and elsewhere.

my Santee is very difficult. He has at least 3 accounts, many many lists. We I finally picked 2, unfortunately I am about $5 over. But...But since I am looking at Book Depository from Australia (my Santee lives in the USA) the price includes A GST tax (=10%) Does the USA have a VAT/GST tax. If NOT can I increase my monies by 10%.

Guido.

PS. He has over 20,000 objects :-)

>152 guido47: I'm in the US. Want me to look at the prices I see? PM if you like.

ETA: Yes, we often have sales tax here, but it depends on where the recipient lives and how the retailer is set up.

>152 guido47: I also have this problem with the GST being added :(

Ok so I know what I am going to buy. Where do I go to pick how do I know what to spenc and what store to go to

>155 cindydavid4:
The store and the "how much to spend" should be on your Santee page...

I was so proud of myself for getting within $0.03 of my Santee's limit only to check back today and see that there's now a $5 shipping charge to account for. I was able to rework my selections a bit and still get my person 3 books, but now I'm ~$1.00 below the limit and I feel much less accomplished. :-)

I could use help with one of my Santees. They said to get books from their WL, but there aren't many. The cheapest is a little under $10 leaving me just under $6 to find another book or comic to add. Would love some suggestions.
https://www.librarything.com/santathing_thing.php?id=103

ok so Im at 33.12 which is just close to perfect. So now what do I do? its asking for all my info etc and I am not sure thats how it works. Im not paying it, soooo how do I make this work?

>158 litwitch: I see your problem -- and hardly any books under $7 (and certainly not on the WL). Maybe this year they'll just get one pricier book plus a bunch of suggestions?

>159 cindydavid4:

You do not order on the store site - you use it to find the books, then you enter them on the Santee page. Look at your Santee page. There is a place to put your selections.

PS: See https://wiki.librarything.com/index.php/SantaThing#Saving_your_picks for more details.

ok I cant find the save choices link anywhere on her page.

I am not sure Ill do this again. Fun picking books but I've spent way too much time the last few days figuring this all out

Thanks >153 karenb:. If book depository also has had $5 added for postage I willl have to rethink everything.

>163 guido47: good idea! I'll choose one of their more expensive wishlist books. Thank you. 💜

YAY! The bookstore was restored to the page and now I am finished! (Thanks Tim and Kate!)

Now to go skip around pages and leave suggestions. Every year there are more and more people and I try to choose the ones who only have 1 comment first. I just love suggestions and like to share good books! Happy picking everyone!! :D

>163 guido47: Same here. I was so proud of myself for getting within 2 cents of the dollar amount. But I think Book Depository ships for free.

>163 guido47: From Book Depository: "We currently ship free of charge to the countries and regions seen below." Long list follows, so shipping be covered just about anywhere in the world. Whew!

>148 RidgewayGirl: I wonder if there are editions of public domain / classic / non-recent-but-enduring books that would cost relatively small amounts of money? Those probably won't fit the requests in the profile, but glancing through the favorited authors, there might be a chance there. (I could imagine (haven't checked) that the last author in your Santees list might have a few very cheap editions available, maybe some others as well.)

Huh, just realised that we can't see prices when someone's asking for help, so we don't know how much is left in the budget...

>168 pammab: I know that's the case for ebooks very often, but there are some houses that publish economy versions of famous classics and such.

>166 Cariola: - I thought my .04 was great. But you beat me.

Some (more) suggestions for my Santee would be welcome, as we have no overlapping tastes, see https://www.librarything.com/santathing_thing.php?id=173
Thanks for the help!

Can someone please look to see if my gifts for my Santee has been saved? I dont see a save button anywhere and thinking it saved itself? If yes,great, if no, I need help and all the FAQ says is to look on the santees page for the link. Many thanks

>173 cindydavid4: I'm not sure that the FAQs have been updated for this year's interface. When you scroll down your Santee's SantaThing profile, you should see a section headed "Purchasing Details." For each book you want to gift your santee, enter the ISBN, title & author, price, and optional comment, then click on the "Add Gift" button. You'll repeat this process for each book you want to gift your santee until you've added all of them.

Below the Gifts Added you will see "Total gifts" and "Remaining". You can tell that your pick has been saved if the "Total gifts" amount increases and the "Remaining" amount decreases after you click on "Add Gift."

The form looks like this:

Oh ok. I got the filling out the form part just fine. Just didn't realize that 'add gift' meant save
Thanks

>175 cindydavid4: Yes, your picks are in and there's a green checkmark by your Santee's entry. You picked great titles for them!

>172 SimoneA:. Suggestion left. Good luck!

>171 dudes22: And the best part is that I was able to get two books that I really wanted to give my Santee while staying under the limit by those two cents. Didn't have to settle for something "meh."

>168 pammab: Thanks, that was useful. Powell's allows me to sort by price, so while the second book won't be from my original list, I have some options I think they will like.

For folks struggling with an awkward amount left, these editions are $10 and have a wide variety of genres. Helped me make the swap after shipping was deducted. https://www.harpercollins.com/pages/oliveeditions

>180 jamieschecter:

Another option: Dover Thrift Editions start at $3 and go up to the teens of dollars.

>178 Cariola: - I managed to get four books: two things from a wishlist they had, one that's the next in a series where they rated the first one 5*, and one that will fit in with their tastes and I just read and gave 5*.

Hello. Can I send a message to the person I pick books for, that they'll get together with the books? Thanks.

>183 Oneironaut: - I noticed a few people added a comment that the person will see when they open the comments later. So that's what I did.

>184 dudes22: Ah, so the comment you add under the picked books will be shown to the person later? Ok. Thank you.

I'd like some suggestions for my Santee, please. I've left a note on the entry. Thank you!

>186 libraryperilous: lol When I go to that link it's Talk Like a Pirate Day!

>187 Tropical-Library: Me too (arrrgh!), and the note is hidden and I think I could not leave a comment. The link from the SantaThing page was normal though. I left an idea.

>187 Tropical-Library:, >188 Capybara_99: Blimey! Sorry about that, mateys. When I clicked the link from my TBR account, it went to the SantaThing entry. I also double-checked my markup in >186 libraryperilous:, and it definitely is showing the URL for my Santee's page.

Let's try this again, from the main site instead of the Anne Bonny one: http://www.librarything.com/santathing_thing.php?id=282

the note is hidden and I think I could not leave a comment

I think this is a bug with the Buccaneer site. I almost always am logged in in Pirate, and when I've clicked on one of the links to entries from this thread, I've been signed out on the entries' pages. I'm logged in on the main site right now and, when I click on the SantaThing entries posted in this thread, I still am signed in and can see/make comments—except for the link in >186 libraryperilous:. If I remove the 'pir.' from that URL and refresh, I'm still on the SantaThing entry page but signed in as libraryperilous. If I change the URLs to any of the links to the Pirate one and refresh the page, I can still see the entry but am logged out and the comments are hidden. Honestly, I find this a fascinating little bug! ETA: This was happening whether or not I opened in a new tab.

LT staff, if you want to investigate further, I'm on FF 83.0, Windows 10.

>176 libraryperilous: that was a lot of fun, had lots of ideas, but had read in his area so an embarrassment of riches I always did want to be a reference librarian so heres my chance

>189 libraryperilous: Once I signed into the Buccaneer site I could leave a comment, but as you said when I first followed the link I didn't know me

>190 cindydavid4: Glad you got to live out your dreams! :) It's extra fun to get matched with a Santee who has similar reading tastes, even though you have to limit your picks to the budget.

Pricing seems very strange, every book in a series at a different price, the first not being the cheapest. Don't know if this is a US thing, just book depository using a weird algorithm, or just how it is, but between that and titles not being in stock, it's annoying.

I'm somewhat over at https://www.librarything.com/santathing_thing.php?id=478 and will keep trying options. More suggestions welcome! Santee has a well stocked library with most obvious suggestions already read. Yes I'm slightly jealous.

>193 reading_fox:

Prices change based on demand in BD sometimes - similarly to how Amazon shifts its prices. Very annoying :)

>193 reading_fox: Book Depository's pricing has fluctuated more frequently and been higher than usual throughout the pandemic. The prices sometimes change overnight. I stumbled a few days ago on a spy novel that normally would retail for around 12 USD going for around $25.

Since I couldn't find the answer in the SantaThing Wiki: Will the comments you can input directly under each book choice be visible to your giftee, or should we be posting any messages for them directly into the comments/suggestions text box as in past years?

Hi is signed up for Santa thing. I need a donation. But in the donation thread I was told my account is too new for Santa thing. But it still let me sign up. I have disabilities it’s hard for me to add books to my account on my own. It’s sad

>197 hamrc: again, I am sorry that I can not help you this year. However due to some things in the past we have had to make two small requirements to ask for a donation.

1) They must have been a member for at least two months (so, their account must have been created no later than September 18, 2020).

2) They must have at least 50 books cataloged in their account.

I am sorry adding books to your library is hard. Can you ask someone to help you add more?

The biggest issue is that you asked after sign up was over. Though I do see you have an entry for $15.

>198 mellymel171328: - I'm a bit surprised by your second requirement since a few people have asked for help with book selection because their person doesn't have enough books in their library. I think one person I looked at had none.

>199 dudes22: I don't remember anyone getting a donation with less then 50 books?

I have ran the donation thread for at the very least six years. The rules hadn't always been around a couple years ago I had a couple people reach out to me with very valid concerns. Then after a certain incidence we sadly had to come up with the small requirements.

>200 mellymel171328: - Sorry - My mistake - I was thinking it was SantaThing in general.

>199 dudes22: It may be that they didn't receive a donation. The qualifiers only are for people who ask for donations, not for all SantaThing signups.

>197 hamrc: I'm glad you were at least able to enter at the $15 level. I've sent you a private message on your profile. I am so, so sorry that something that should be festive made you sad, and I'm sorry that LT isn't accessible for you.

>197 hamrc: do you have a phone that takes photos? I think it's been set up now that you can take a photo of the barcode and the app enters the information for you. (someone correct me if I'm wrong?) But it would save a lot of time and might be easier for someone who isn't used to cataloging. Hope that helps!

nvm, helps if I read carefully!

Does anyone have ideas on what to do with a few dollars left over? My picks are under the $6 mark but I'd like to do something with that I've got left. Is a bookmark or something okay (if I can spot such a thing) or should I get what I can in books?

>205 WeeTurtle: Dover Thrift editions?

(I don't know the answer to the bookmark question.)

>206 karenb: Oh! I forgot about those. I'll have a look. I'm not familiar with the bookstore I'm using.

That worked! Slightly antsy about my picks, but hoping something hits the mark. Only one personal recommendation to make and one thing I knew of that appears to fit the bill. The others are google assisted guesses.

For Left Bank Books, does it have to say "On Our Shelves Now," or is "Usually Ships in 1-5 Days" fine?

Since the picking of gifts is officially over, will we be able to pick gifts for those whose gifts have not yet been chosen? If so, how do we sign up for this?
sallylou61. (also posted on SantaThing help page)

>210 sallylou61: In the past they would ask for volunteers on the SantaThing thread if they need them and it was usually whoever happened to respond when they asked. They often also ask for recommendations during their ordering process.

We'll be opening it up to volunteers soon.

Okay, we've got 66 unpicked or partially-picked members.

If you'd like to pick up a member, go to https://www.librarything.com/santathing.php

If you just want to leave comments, that's also useful.

Conversation continued here: https://www.librarything.com/topic/327047

Tim

>213 timspalding: can we choose who?

>214 cindydavid4: Yes, you click on a member in the unpicked area and at the top there is a place to click claim

>1 katemcangus: Yay! I got my SantaThing books today! They are wonderful! How do I thank my Santa???

>216 kristinbell:

On Christmas day the Santathing page will be unlocked and you'll be able to see who your santa was. Until then, no peeking!

>217 Petroglyph: Thank you! I couldn't remember! hahahaha. Getting long in the tooth. hehe.

Is there a SantaThing Arrivals thread for 2020 yet?

>219 kristinbell: katemcangus is going to create one soon and will probably post it in the Continued thread here: https://www.librarything.com/topic/327047. Thanks!

Have all books been ordered? Looks like there are quite a few that don't have a package next to them... going to be cutting it close to arrive by Christmas.

>221 MJHagan: I contacted Abby last week about my Santee, who is one of those without a package. The LT elves were able to submit all the orders in a spreadsheet to at least one of the bookstores. Adding the package icon to those orders hasn't been as high a priority as other things on their plate right now.

>222 cbl_tn:

Yes, all books have been ordered. Or rather all physical books. The exception are some ebooks which we are ordering a certain number a day--keeping it low in order to not trigger max-transaction limits.

Already received one if the books that was picked out for my son using Book Depository.

>224 kkelm22: Yay! (There's a separate Arrivals thread over here)

>226 debbie1215: I’ve participated in years past and received books before and after Christmas. There is no guarantee that they will arrive by Christmas. If you are located in the US, USPS Informed Delivery app had a tab for packages and will show when the bookstore generates a label. My books are coming from Left Bank and the label was just generated yesterday.

>226 debbie1215: in the arrivals thread you can see where folks are getting books. I have mine already, from Powell’s.

>226 debbie1215: Patience is a virtue. Just sayin

It's almost Christmas! Getting so excited for Secret Santa to arrive.

>226 debbie1215: your books were ordered the 10th and there are at least two of them. Sadly mail is also moving super slow. I have something I ordered the 1st of December that I still haven't received. This is the 14th annual santathing. I promise you haven't been swindled.

>230 cindydavid4: You are right - I need to learn that. I have little some days

>232 mellymel171328: Thank you! Im sorry i was impatient...

>227 cassiejay: thank you - I got one today! I guess i was just impatient!!

>227 cassiejay: How did you see your label that was generated?

Mine are coming from Left Bank too.

Thanks!

>233 debbie1215: I totally understand :) Hope your package comes soon!

Hi!

Haven't read the thread, so apologies in advance. . .but I'm wondering if a lot of others are still expecting the arrival of their SantaThing orders?

If not, is there some way to possibly find out if there is a problem not related to USPS? Thanks!

Thank you Santa! Reading Circe and absolutely loving it, looking forward to reading some NK Jemisin as well :)

Hello!
Received my books yesterday, Jan.3, in Larksville, PA from Powells.
Thanks to my Secret Santa for the great selections.
Take Care and Happy New Year!!!

Received the books!(forgot to enter them right away, sorry!) :) Thanks to my Secret Santa! Lies of Locke Lamora was on my personal wishlist for a veeerry long time. I've started reading it right away!
I also received Altered Carbon, and the sci-fi premise is promising :) Great picks, huge thanks, I'm very happy! :-D

I just received my books today in Minnesota. It looks like they were mailed out on December 21st from LeftBank in MO.

They are wonderful! I have not read any of them.

Many thanks to my Secret Santa. Well done!

I'm STILL waiting. . .patiently(?). Am beginning to lose my Xmas spirits. Wish there were a way to trace these shipments.

>244 Limelite: I received two of my three books on January 12th, and the order slip made clear that they had only placed the order on January 6th and only shipped the book January 8th. (Powells decided to cancel the third book. Luckily, LT staff swooped in and ordered it specially, so it arrived yesterday.) If you live in a place with slower shipping and the bookstore placed the order late, it would make sense that you are still waiting. If you're really worried, you could reach out to staff (who have more info on the orders), but I might give it another week or two?

By the way, thanks for your comment on my SantaThing request! I'm 40 pages into A Guide to the Birds of East Africa after it arrived yesterday and am having a fun time.

>245 Kanarthi:

Thanks for your advice. I should probably have included in my post that I did contact staff 2-3 weeks ago with my problem and, well. . .here I still am.

Never mind. I'm delighted that you're enjoying "A Guide." I thought it a grand big-hearted kind of book, and loved the p.o.v. character. Such books are classified in my reading mind as "little gems." Dai Sijie's Balzac and the Little Chinese Seamstress is another such. These are shortish novels without overt heroes performing death-defying acts in tumultuous times. But despite that, I find that they are richer and more resonant, living on in memory and in great affection because they are full of wisdom and human understanding often beyond what a reader can find in a "timeless" saga. At least to me.

I wish you readers' joy in the New Year and encounters with many "little gems." (I have a "library" of them and am happy to share titles with you, on a fair swap basis -- heh heh.)