Q: do i need to have an apple product to set up family sharing as the parent

both of my kids have iPads with books on them. i am trying to set up family sharing so that i don't have to re-buy books, but it seems that i would need an iPhone or apple computer to be the parent in the family sharing account, which i don't have. is there a way to be the parent without having to own an apple product or another way that they can share and exchange their books? please help soon!!!