Do you love reading physical books but have a hard time finding a way to read comfortably without closing the book? Are you looking for a way to keep your books open while you read them without damaging your prized hardcover or paperback? If so, read on to learn how to easily open a book!

Whether you’re looking for something to help you open a book with one hand, help you read without pain, or help you read in bed without accidentally dropping a book on your face (which is sinful!), these tips, tricks, and gadgets will make reading printed books easy and comfortable!

A book with its pages fanned open.

1. Curved spine (not recommended)
   I know I said I would share ways that won’t damage your books. However, if you’re looking for an easy way to open your paperbacks and don’t mind them being a little messy, bending/creasing spines is one way to open them with ease.

This is my least favorite method as it obviously puts more wear and tear on your book, but all you have to do is open the book and bend half the book back to the other half. Some people even hold the book in one hand this way, with the pages folded all the way to the side…but obviously, this doesn’t apply to books you care about preserving or keeping in pristine condition for your collection.

However, in a pinch — or if you only buy cheap books you don’t care about — then this method can help. It won’t work with thicker or hardcover books though, and if you care about preserving your books then you’ll want to check out some of the other methods included on this list that will do a better job of helping you read while still maintaining your book’s good condition.

2. Use the thumb page holder

When you’re wondering how to hold a book in one hand, the thumb page holder should definitely be on your list of ways to think about it! These inexpensive gadgets are great for opening your book with one hand.

There are tons of cool thumb page holder designs to choose from, but they all help you hold the pages open for easy reading (even if you’re holding a book in one hand and coffee or tea in the other!).

To use, simply slide the thumb page holder over your thumb, press it against the center of the book, and start reading. These book holders are lightweight and very portable, easy to use, and take with you.

Buy the Thumb Book Holder Now!

3. Attach page folders to your book

Another possible way to secure books is to use page clips – either clips made specifically for holding books, or using items you already have around the house.

Page binders work similarly to the idea of thumb binders, but instead of pressing your thumb on the book to open it, you simply clip the gadget to the page. Some examples of items/gadgets you can use include:

DIY version – use large paper clips, pens with clips, binder clips, etc.
Musical page holders (you can also repurpose them for reading and allow for semi-easy page turning depending on the thickness of the book).
Gimble book holder (adjustable clip/stand to keep books open and turn pages easily).
This option allows you to keep it open more automatically than a thumb turner since you don’t have to actively press down on the book. But you’ll also find that some of these options, like Gimble, are easier to turn the page than others. So you may find that some of the above methods are better suited to your reading habits and needs.

4. Use weighted bookmarks

Another useful tool for opening books is weighted bookmarks, such as BookBone bookmarks.

The weighted end of this bookmark allows you to place it on top of your book and let it do the work of opening it for you. It comes with helpful instructions, but ultimately it allows you to read hands-free and turn pages with one hand if you prefer.

Plus, as a bonus, you can also use it as a bookmark! So it’s a bookend and a bookmark in one.

5. Try a pillow shelf

If you’re looking for a hands-free book holder, or wondering how to hold a book in bed, on a long car trip, or anywhere else, the Pillow Book Holder is a great choice!

I’m very focused on comfort, which makes pillow book holders one of my favorite ways to open books easily. There are plenty of pillow holders to choose from, but popular pillow holders like The Book Seat and Peeramid do a great job of holding books for you.

And, as mentioned, this is perfect for reading in bed, on the couch, on the go, while traveling, or just about anywhere…and adored by kids and adults alike! So if you’re looking for a way to comfortably open your book while reading, it’s a no-brainer to try.

Get your Pillow Book Holder today!

6. Use a completely hands-free book holder

Finally, if you’re looking for the best way tohold a book, or wondering how to hold a book hands-free, then using a completely hands-free book holder is just what you need!

This is a great option if you need to read for long periods of time, or if you have a medical condition that makes holding a book painful, and there are plenty of other situations where a book stand like this would be helpful or make the most sense.

You’ll find a variety of different options and styles to choose from; some options include classic bamboo book holders, lighter plastic versions, and height-adjustable shelves for more comfortable reading.

You need to figure out when and where you plan to use your book holder most, which can help you decide which features you need. For example, are you going to put it on your lap or on a table? Do you plan to use it at home or take it with you sometimes? Answering questions like these can help you decide which is the best option for you.

But whichever you choose, using a completely hands-free book holder will help you keep your books open for long periods of time easily and painlessly!