Welcome to paperback passport: what to expect
Welcome to Paperback Passport! Whether you're a voracious reader looking to discover new titles or someone with a shelf full of books waiting for their next adventure, you're in the right place.
What is Paperback Passport?
Paperback Passport is a book swapping platform that connects readers who want to share physical books. Instead of letting books sit unread on your shelf or buying new copies, you can swap books with other readers and keep stories circulating through our community.
Here's how it works in simple terms: you add books you're willing to share, browse books others are offering, and we match you with other readers. Then you swap—you send your book, they send theirs, and everyone discovers something new to read.
Your Journey: What Happens When
If you're wondering what to expect over the coming weeks, here's your roadmap:
Right Now: Getting Your Swap Box & Account Setup
Once you're accepted into the pilot program, we'll send you a Swap Box (your reusable shipping box). While that's on its way, create your account using the link in your welcome email. Within 24 hours, you'll receive an invite to join the Pilot Group—accept it to start participating.
Days 1-3: Adding Books & Making Selections
Once you've joined the Pilot Group, you'll add books from your shelf that you're willing to swap and browse what other pilot participants are offering. You'll select books you'd like to receive, and others will do the same.
Week 2: Matching
Our system will match you with other readers based on everyone's selections, creating swapping chains that ensure everyone receives books they're interested in. You'll receive a notification when your match is ready, along with details about who you're sending to and who you'll be receiving from. Remember: swaps aren't always direct one-for-one exchanges. Our system creates chains where your book might go to one person while you receive a book from someone else entirely.
Week 2-3: Shipping & Receiving
Use your Swap Box and the pre-paid shipping label we send you to mail your book to your match. Pack your book, drop it at Australia Post, and wait for your new read to arrive from your sender. Most swaps complete within 7-10 days.
Week 3-4: Reading & Feedback
Enjoy your new book! We'll reach out for feedback about your experience to help us improve the platform.
Ongoing: Continue Swapping
After your first swap, you can continue participating in new swapping rounds with the Pilot Group.
A Note About SwapBox & Swapping Chain
As you use the platform, you might notice references to "SwapBox" or "Swapping Chain" alongside Paperback Passport branding. Don't worry—you're in the right place!
Paperback Passport is powered by SwapBox technology. Think of SwapBox as the infrastructure that makes the swapping process work—the matching system, shipping logistics, and platform features. We're using their proven technology while we build out the Paperback Passport brand and community.
During the pilot, you may see both names in different parts of the experience. This is completely normal and expected.
Your Role as a Pilot Participant
You're not just trying out a new platform, you're helping build it. As a pilot participant, your feedback matters. We want to know:
What feels intuitive and what's confusing
What features you love or wish existed
Any hiccups you encounter along the way
Ideas for making the experience better
We'll send you a feedback survey after your first swap, but you're always welcome to share thoughts anytime by emailing support@paperbackpassport.com.
Getting the Most Out of Your Experience
To have the best pilot experience:
Add variety to your library. Different genres and titles increase your chances of matching with other readers.
Be honest about book conditions. Clear descriptions help everyone know what to expect.
Ship promptly. Try to mail your book within 3 days of receiving your Swap Box to keep things moving smoothly.
Communicate openly. If something goes wrong or you have questions, reach out. We're here to help.
What's Next?
Ready to dive in? Head to the next article in this series to learn how to set up your account and join the Pilot Group. Once you're in, you'll be ready to start adding books and making your first selections.
Questions? Email us at support@paperbackpassport.com—we typically respond within 24 hours.
