Sorry that the signing of the gift books is a problem.
It is 'Tradition". I buy lots of old books on different subjects and sewing. Almost all of them are signed as you describe. i.e. To (somebody) from (somebody) Christmas 1918. Or what ever the occasion was ? graduation etc.
People have borrowed so many books from me and not returned them that I put an address label in my books now. Or I put my signature on pg. 50 or 500.
I have also decided to not lend any more books. Too much loss!