T hese days, it is neither fashionable nor feasible for families to have a library at home, except for keeping some coffee table books. Even those who like to read would rather watch videos on the books and authors, or read the e-book editions, which are cheaper and do not require space for storage in cupboards. But there are still people, not necessarily of the older generation, who prefer to read paper editions of books and read them by turning pages and occasionally smelling their distinct aroma.
Some of us not only read books but also have personal copies which are copiously marked for reference. Some of us also record meticulous notes on the margins or on the back pages of the book for various purposes, including writing articles. A recent bestseller could serve as an ice breaker or form the basis of an opening gambit when you meet a friend who is part of your coterie.
Over the years, I have collected a large number of books and after reading them, also distributed them by mini-truck loads; not to mention those that were borrowed and never returned. When living at places with no easy access to bookshops, I often joined book clubs which delivered one book every month, including classics as well as popular fiction. I have also occasionally gone berserk at railway stations and airports in search of something new which caught my attention.
Of course, I have borrowed books from libraries, taken notes and returned them. However, I had a sad experience in my university library .
