Would You Ever Sell Your Book Collection?

I am a writer. My life is intertwined with literature, and I accumulate books as if they were treasures. I find inspiration in them, and they become a part of my daily life. Once I have extracted the essence from a book, the idea of sharing it becomes more compelling. In this article, I'll delve into my thoughts on selling or giving away my book collection and explore the value these books hold.

The Significance of Books in My Life

Writing and reading are intimately connected for me. Each book I read serves as a guide, a mirror, or a catalyst for my creativity. There are countless books that have captivated my imagination, brought tears to my eyes, or sparked discussions that have enriched my life. Yet, not all books hold the same significance; there are a few that stand out as timeless classics, their impact lasting every time I revisit them. These are treasures I keep to myself, occasionally lending them to those who might appreciate them.

A Curated Life: Selling or Donating Books

Will I ever sell my book collection? The short answer is no, but there are circumstances under which I would consider doing so. As I age, it may become necessary to downsize, and the books that no longer fit my living space must find new homes.

Instead of discarding them, I will attempt to find good homes for my books, especially those older works that libraries might not value. When I moved across the country 20 years ago, I donated a large collection of around 1000 mostly fictional books to the library at my former high school. The library set up a free table where eager students and teachers could take what they wanted, boosting their reading habits and broadening their horizons. Although I had over 2000 books at one point, moving into a smaller place necessitated letting go of many. I am proud that I read every book in that collection, even if I had to part with some.

Personal Experiences and Upcoming Changes

As I grow older, the need to downsize looms. Once I reach the age where assisted living becomes an option, I will prioritize finding new owners for older, less valuable books. Meanwhile, books that have inspired and nurtured me, such as annotated sci-fi short-story collections, will continue to stay with me. I am currently giving these collections to my niece and might consider gifting a series to a deserving young reader who lacks the means to purchase books on their own.

The literature on peace, war, and nonviolence is special to me and should eventually find its way to libraries or bookstores dedicated to these themes. For now, the books are comforting and bring joy simply by being around. They are not just objects but interpretations of my life and the world as I see it.

Conclusion

My book collection is an extension of myself, a personal library that captures a lifetime of experiences and interactions. While the thought of selling these books is not palatable, I am open to giving them away or donating them to places where they can continue to inspire and enrich others. The essence of these books is in their shared stories, and it is a privilege to be a part of their journey.

MJM, a bookworm with legs and a cat named Legs!