Book
Book is crafted from paper and leather, then used for bookshelves, lecterns, and enchantment storage.
Description
The item becomes more powerful when enchanted. Enchanted books store specific enchantments that can be applied later with an anvil, letting players preserve rare rolls, trade with librarians, and combine gear upgrades deliberately. Written variants also support notes, server rules, adventure-map clues, and lore. A reliable supply of paper and leather keeps progression moving.
Java & Bedrock Guide
How to craft and use a Book in Minecraft
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1
Gather paper and leather
Craft 3 paper by placing 3 sugar cane in a row on the crafting grid, and get 1 leather from cows, horses, llamas, or a Leatherworker villager trade.
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2
Craft the Book
Place 3 paper and 1 leather anywhere in the crafting grid. This shapeless recipe returns one Book in both Java and Bedrock Edition.
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3
Build a bookshelf
Combine 6 wooden planks and 3 Books to craft one bookshelf. Placing bookshelves around an enchanting table raises the enchantment levels it offers.
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4
Enchant with the Book
Use 1 Book, 2 diamonds, and 4 obsidian to craft an enchanting table, or combine a Book with an Eye of Ender setup and trade with a Librarian for enchanted books.
Books are flammable, so keep bookshelf libraries away from lava and fire. Breaking a bookshelf without Silk Touch returns 3 Books, so enchanting setups can be relocated cheaply.
How to craft this block
Used in crafts
Frequently asked questions
How do you craft a Book in Minecraft?
Place 3 paper and 1 leather anywhere in the crafting grid. This shapeless recipe produces one Book in both Java and Bedrock Edition.
What is a Book used for?
Books craft bookshelves (3 per shelf), enchanting tables (1 per table), and book and quill. Enchanted books store enchantments you apply later with an anvil.
How many Books do you need for a max enchanting setup?
A maximum-level enchanting table needs 15 bookshelves around it, which is 45 Books, plus 1 Book for the table itself — 46 Books in total.
Can you get Books without crafting them?
Yes. Breaking a bookshelf without Silk Touch drops 3 Books, stronghold and dungeon chests contain them, and Librarian villagers sell enchanted books.
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