A librarian discovered a seven-word note inside a library returns box, and social media users were quick to point out its clever reference. The message, written on a small piece of cardboard, read: "The book with no pictures or words."
Discovery in the Returns Chute
Library return chutes allow patrons to return books after hours by placing items against a panel that opens into a secure container. Recently, one librarian was surprised while checking the stash, finding the tiny cardboard note. She shared the discovery on Reddit, writing: "This was put through the library returns chute." The note, she explained, was a piece of folded cardboard that looked like a little book.
Many commenters found the find adorable and noted the likely reference to B.J. Novak's popular children's book, The Book With No Pictures. One user joked: "It's a light read," while another added: "Well, open it up! You're not supposed to judge a book by its cover." Others suggested she place it on the shelves.
The Clever Reference
The message is widely believed to be a nod to Novak's 2014 book, which contains no illustrations and relies solely on text, fonts, and colors for humor. The book, often described as "raucous and ridiculous," requires adults to read silly words and phrases aloud, making it a hit with parents and teachers. Targeted at children aged 5-8, its 48 pages use varying text sizes and colors to replace traditional pictures.
The post garnered over 6,700 upvotes and dozens of comments, with many praising the creativity of the note. One user called it "adorable," while another confirmed the reference to Novak's book. The librarian noted it was "definitely one of the more random things that has come through the chute."
