Adding Your Books & Making Your Selections
Now that you're part of the Pilot Group, it's time for the fun part—adding books from your shelf and browsing what others are offering. This is where you'll build your swapping library and choose your next great read.
Adding Books to Your Library
Your library is the collection of books you're willing to swap with others. The more books you add, the more options other readers have to match with you—and the more likely you are to get matched with books you want.
How to Add a Book
Navigate to your dashboard and select the Pilot Group
Click "Add an item" or "Add a book" (depending on your view)
Upload a photo of your book—ideally showing the cover clearly
Add book details:
Title
Author
Brief description (optional, but helpful)
Condition notes (be honest about wear and tear)
Save the book to your library
Repeat this process for each book you want to add.
How Many Books Should You Add?
We recommend adding at least 3-5 books to start. The more variety you offer, the better your chances of matching with other readers. That said, only add books you're genuinely willing to part with—swapping means these books will go to new homes.
Tips for Great Book Listings
Take clear photos.
A well-lit photo of the cover helps other readers see what you're offering. If there's damage or significant wear, include a photo of that too.
Be honest about condition.
Is it like new? Gently used? Dog-eared and loved? Let people know what to expect. This builds trust and prevents disappointment.
Add personality to descriptions.
A short note about why you loved the book or what kind of reader might enjoy it can make your listing more appealing. For example: "A gripping thriller perfect for fans of Gillian Flynn" or "Cozy mystery with quirky characters—great weekend read."
Browsing & Selecting Books
Once you've added your books, it's time to browse what other pilot participants are offering and select books you'd like to receive.
How to Browse Available Books
Go to "Active Swapping Chains" in your dashboard
Select the Pilot Group's active chain
Browse the available books that others have added
Click on any book to see more details, photos, and condition notes
How to Select Books You Want
When you find a book you'd like to receive:
Click "Select this book" or "Add to my selections"
Confirm your selection
Repeat for other books that interest you
You can typically select multiple books, which increases your chances of getting matched. The system will work to match everyone based on mutual interest and availability.
Can I Change My Selections?
Yes! Up until the matching calculation happens, you can update your selections. If you change your mind about a book or see something new that's been added, feel free to adjust.
You'll receive a notification letting you know when selections close and matching begins.
What Happens During Matching?
Once the selection period closes, our system analyzes everyone's books and selections to create matches. The goal is to ensure:
Everyone who participates gets matched
Matches are based on mutual interest where possible
The swaps work logistically (books going to people who want them)
Matching typically takes 1-2 days. You'll receive an email notification when your match is ready, along with details about who you're swapping with and what book you'll be receiving.
Best Practices for Success
Add books early.
The sooner you add your books, the more time others have to browse and select them.
Be open-minded.
You might not always get your first choice, but you might discover a new favorite you wouldn't have picked up otherwise.
Update your selections if new books appear.
People add books throughout the selection period, so check back periodically.
Ask questions if needed.
If you want more info about a book's condition or have questions about a listing, reach out to support@paperbackpassport.com and we can help facilitate.
What's Next?
Once matching is complete and you've received your match notification, it's time for the swap itself—packing, shipping, and receiving your new book. The next article walks you through that entire process.
Need help? Email support@paperbackpassport.com and we'll get back to you within 24 hours.
