multiple copies

[catherine at cator-manor.demon.co.uk]

--- In HPFGU-OTChatter at y..., storm <msmacgoo at o...> wrote:
> This is very tragic, I bought a new copy of PoA today (and I would 
have bought 
> GoF but they were out) because I can't take it that mine are STILL 
out on loan. 
> I could have given the money to charity, I could have done a heap 
of things. I 
> feel completely self indulgent.
> 
> But I'm much happier.


Why, oh why do my messages keep being eaten? 

Don't worry about multiple copies.  I am the same.  I go so far as 
having my "best" almost untouched, favourite copies which sit on the 
shelf to be admired and looked at (and smelt, I love the smell of 
books).  Then I have the ones which I will on occasion lend out.  I 
have stopped doing this frequently though, because so many people do 
not have the same regard for books as I do - they do not reread, and 
therefore cannot understand why I am desperate to have my favourites 
returned to me.  I have bought several copies of some of my 
favourites over the years, because I do not like the thought that I 
may some day want to read something again which is long since gone.

Rereading:  I would expect that most people on this list can relate 
to the concept.  My husband cannot understand it.  However, now he 
realises what I am like, everytime I come home with new books, he 
says "Not more books - haven't you got enough yet?"  It also took me 
a long time to train him to appreciate that they had a place in our 
house.  It took me four years to actually get a bookcase into the 
house - prior to that he wanted them stored in boxes, under the 
stairs or in the garage.  It was one of the few times I put my foot 
down.  I don't think that enjoying the sight of a well stocked 
bookcase is unusual though - is it?  I find it very satisfying.

Catherine, who lives in hope of a bigger house with her own, personal 
library in it.