Talking.Ws

The humble bookmark is an invaluable asset to the avid reader. For as long as there have been books, bookmarks have been the readers friend (along with the book-light). It is a convenient and safe way to remind the reader where to start reading next, when he or she continues to read after a break. Bookmarks also save valuable books from becoming "dog eared".

The practice of using bookmarks began in the 16th century with the bookmarks that were made from ribbon (usually silk) attached to the spine. Detachable bookmarks came into vogue some years later with poems or sayings either printed, attached or embroided into the bookmark. A kind of bookmark to remind the reader of some noteworthy phrase or thing. Almost any flat material can become a bookmark, provided it does not damage the pages of the book in any way.

I love this reflection on bookmarks — they’re such simple yet meaningful companions for readers. Beyond their practicality, bookmarks often carry a sense of personality and memory. Some people use beautifully crafted ones with quotes, while others slip in tickets, postcards, or even leaves, making each book a little time capsule of their journey. I find that a unique bookmark can make reading feel more special, almost like a ritual. It’s also fascinating how bookmarks have evolved from silk ribbons in the 16th century to endless creative designs today. They truly blend utility with charm for every book lover.

Bookmarks are little love letters to readers—quiet companions that hold our place while our minds wander through stories. For book lovers, they’re not just markers, but memories tucked between pages, reminding us where we paused and what we felt.

Bookmarks are a wonderful way for book lovers to personalise their reading experience. Whether handmade, magnetic, or themed, they add a small touch of joy to every reading session and make great gifts for anyone who enjoys books.

Bookmarks are very helpful for people who love to read books. A bookmark helps you remember where you stopped reading. When you want to read again, you can easily find your page. Bookmarks also keep books safe and stop pages from bending. Long ago, people used ribbons as bookmarks. Later, they made bookmarks with poems or nice words on them. Today, any flat and soft thing can be a bookmark if it does not hurt the book pages.

A bookmark really is a small thing that makes a big difference for readers. There is something special about closing a book and knowing you can come back to the exact same line without folding the page.

I did not know that bookmarks started as silk ribbons in the 16th century. That detail makes them feel even more meaningful. It is nice how something so simple has such a long history.

And you are right, almost anything flat can become a bookmark. I have used tickets, postcards, even a simple piece of paper. But a proper bookmark always feels better. It adds a personal touch to the reading experience and shows care for the book. For people who truly love books, a bookmark is more than just a tool. It becomes part of the story.