An Exploratory Analysis of Structural, Behavioural, Operational and Strategic Challenges in BookSwap: A Peer-to-Peer Book Exchange Platform

Peer-to-peer (P2P) exchange platforms enable access-based consumption and sustainable resource circulation. BookSwap is a non-monetary book exchange platform developed for student communities. Despite its conceptual value, early-stage exchange systems face structural and strategic barriers that limit adoption. This exploratory qualitative study identifies behavioural, technological, operational, and networkrelated constraints affecting BookSwap. Key challenges include trust deficits, cold-start participation dynamics, coordination complexity, and governance limitations. A conceptual network-effects model illustrates adoption thresholds. The findings suggest that institutional verification, structured moderation, and strategic community engagement are essential for long-term viability. The study contributes to understanding micro-scale non-monetised exchange ecosystems within academic environments.