Packing Tips

Here are some tips you can refer to as you participate in Operation Bare Your Bookshelf:

• Order a good supply of flat-rate international mailers on the USPS website. They cost nothing, and they'll bring them to your front door free of charge.

• DO NOT reinforce the sides of envelopes with tape and/or glue as this creates shipping problems

• Once your bookshelf is bare, you can keep the program going without breaking the bank. Look for books and Bibles at yard sales, thrift stores, used book stores, and sales at Christian bookstores.

• Be selective - remember that English probably isn't your recipient's first language. You don't want books that are too bound to American culture. They can still be in English, but try to select books that anyone can relate to.

• Collect books both large and small - fill the packages with smaller ones and fill a large box with the bigger ones. Then, send it directly to CRI to be included on a Great Crate shipment!

• Spend time learning about the country your recipient is in and the needs there and then Pray for your recipient by name. If the lines at your post office are as long as mine, you'll have plenty of time to do this!

• Think big! How many people could you teach, encourage, and build up over the next year with just a few trips to the post office?