Singapore’s National Library Board (NLB) has just released Wave 3 of its wildly popular Book Bugs: Tales of the Travellers trading card series — and it’s the perfect time for young readers to dive into the adventure.
Part of a larger nationwide literacy initiative, Book Bugs rewards children with collectible cards as they borrow books and complete reading-related activities. Now in its third wave, this campaign is not only encouraging kids to read more — it’s also teaching them the joy of collecting.
What Is Book Bugs Cards?
Book Bugs is an NLB-led program that turns library borrowing into a rewarding and gamified experience. Kids aged 7 to 12 can earn Book Bugs points by borrowing books and completing online quizzes. These points can be exchanged for physical trading cards at public library machines.
The campaign runs across three waves of card releases:
- Wave 1: August 2024
- Wave 2: November 2024
- Wave 3: March 2025 — Now Available
There are total 100 cards. Each card features an original “Traveller” from the fictional realm of Bugcadia, complete with stories, artwork, and themed regions. The third wave brings fresh characters, expanded lore, and a final chance to complete your set before the season ends.
How to Collect NLB Book Bugs Cards
To ensure you’re collecting the right way, here’s the official step-by-step process, based on NLB’s how-to guide:
1. Earn Points
You can earn points in two ways:
- 1 point per book borrowed (physical or eBook)
- Up to 8 bonus points per month by completing quizzes on the Book Bugs website
- Every 4 points you collect will give you 1 Book Bugs card
You can earn up to 24 points per day by borrowing 16 physical books and 8 eBooks.
2. Redeem Your Points
Via NLB mobile app or website:
- Go to your Points & Rewards section
- Select how many cards you want to redeem
- A QR code and 8-digit redemption code will be generated and emailed to you
3. Collect Cards at Dispensing Machines
Bring your QR code or code to any Book Bugs card dispensing machine at participating public libraries.
Most public libraries are part of the campaign, but a few (Bukit Batok Public Library, library@chinatown, library@orchard, Marine Parade Public Library) are excluded. Take note, the redemption period ends on 30 Jun 2025.
Guardian Bugs: Region-Locked Exclusive Cards
Guardian Bugs (Avecour, Liraes, Nyphyx and Thrmys) are currently region-locked cards and are only available at the public libraries within their region.
| Guardian Bug | Region | Available At |
| Avecour | Mirevi | Central Public Library, library@harbourfront |
| Liraes | Fensglade | Serangoon, Toa Payoh, Bedok, Cheng San, Geylang East, Punggol, Pasir Ris, Sengkang, Tampines |
| Nyphyx | Aquaria | Choa Chu Kang, Clementi, Jurong Regional, Jurong West, Queenstown |
| Thrmys | Wyntreim | Ang Mo Kio, Bishan, Bukit Panjang, Sembawang, Woodlands, Yishun |
This mechanic adds an exciting real-world “region locking” feature, encouraging kids to explore new library branches and even trade with friends.
Why We Love This Campaign
Book Bugs isn’t just fun — it’s a smart, meaningful initiative that promotes reading and learning through:
- Reward-based incentives that motivate kids to read more
- Exploration of libraries as engaging, community-driven spaces
- Early lessons in collecting — from set completion to rarity and card care
- A seamless blend of digital tools and real-world participation
- Screen-free excitement that nurtures a lifelong love for books and literacy
Meet The Book Bugs
To help kids stay organized, here is the Book Bugs Checklist as provided on NLB website.
Final Thoughts
With Wave 3 of Book Bugs: Tales of the Travellers now live, there’s never been a better time to get involved. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or young reader — this campaign blends the joy of reading with the thrill of collecting in a way few programs do.
Singapore’s NLB has created a blueprint for literacy-driven engagement that other countries could learn from. And for the kids? It’s just plain fun.
So grab your library card, earn those points, and complete your Book Bugs journey.
NLB Book Bugs Trading Cards – FAQ
What are NLB Book Bugs trading cards?
Book Bugs is a collectible trading card series launched by the National Library Board (NLB) of Singapore. It encourages young readers to borrow and read books by rewarding them with colorful and educational trading cards featuring book-themed characters.
How can children earn Book Bugs trading cards?
Children can earn Book Bugs trading cards by borrowing books from NLB libraries in Singapore and logging their reading progress. The more books they borrow, the more cards they receive as part of the Book Bugs reading challenge.
Are Book Bugs cards available year-round?
Book Bugs cards are typically released during special reading campaigns or challenges. Availability may be limited to certain months or events organized by the National Library Board.
Can you trade or collect Book Bugs cards?
Yes. Book Bugs cards are designed to be traded and collected. Each wave features unique characters, and many young readers aim to complete full sets. Trading events may also be held at libraries.
Where can I find a checklist of all Book Bugs cards?
You can find checklists through the official NLB Book Bugs campaign website, or fan-curated resources such as HoloHoard’s Book Bugs tracker and blog posts.
Are Book Bugs cards only for children?
While the program is designed for young readers, many adult collectors and parents also enjoy collecting Book Bugs cards for their design, educational value, and nostalgia.
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