FAQs
More specifically, a book elf:
- Is part of a community. The term originated in the book community and is associated with a specific, and often seasonal, trend of spreading kindness through sharing puzzles.
- Performs a simple, kind deed. The puzzle elf anonymously shares a puzzle with a stranger simply for the pleasure of passing on a good puzzle.
- Operates on a “take one, leave one” principle. In some variations, the tradition is that the finder will complete the puzzle and then “re-release” it somewhere else for another person to find.
- Often includes a note. Sometimes, the puzzle has a note or a sticker inside to explain the purpose of the gift and encourage the recipient to pass it on.
- Enthusiasm for puzzling: Their passion for puzzles makes the experience of finding a new story enjoyable for others.
This term is a colloquial and informal expression. In general, it refers to a lover of puzzles or an assistant who helps with puzzles.
Puzzle Elves simply find creative ways to keep puzzles in circulation and out of landfills. Their generous donations create a sense of community — along with many smiles and memories. Some reach out to local libraries, faith-based centers, thrift stores, schools, senior centers and other community hubs. Others prefer exchanges or online platforms. The goal is always the same – to create opportunities to share joy of puzzling with others.
The opportunities to keep puzzles in circulation are endless. Basically, there are two ways to go. One is to exchange, and the other is to gift or donate. If you are going to donate puzzles to a particular organization, then it’s best to check their specific policies and needs first by calling them directly.
Places to donate or exchange include:
- Friends & Family
- Libraries
- Schools
- Churches
- Senior Centers
- Nursing Homes
- Clubhouses
- Faith-based Centers
- Thrift Stores
- Rummage/Garage Sales
- Facebook Groups
- Puzzle Exchanges
- Little Free Libraries
- Community Centers
- Online Swaps
- Hospitals
- Homeless & Family Shelters
- Buy-Nothing Groups
- Puzzle Gift Baskets for Auctions
- Used Book Stores
Yes, though they may not always be called by that specific name. Online puzzle groups, puzzle exchange apps, and gift exchanges provide opportunities for people to come together and share their love of puzzles with others, in ways that resemble puzzle elfing. These communities connect puzzle lovers across the globe, allowing them to participate in gifting activities and share recommendations.
