I love to wander through books stores, (yes the brick and mortar stores).  I get such a feeling of companionship when I hold a book in my hand.  I love the feel of the paper and the colors and images on the  cover or dust jacket.   I easily get lost trying to find a story line that intrigues me.

Although I do love the crisp new pages of a newly released edition from my favorite author, a meander through the aisles of a used book store is an entirely different adventure. Browsing through the pages I often find loose paper used as book marks.  Instantly, my mind begins to imagine the previous owner of this book, which has found its way into my hands.  I start to visualize the person, securing their reading glasses on the bridge of their nose to begin reading.  The door bell rings….. they grab a slip of paper, or bookmark and save the page.  Suddenly, I’m creating a scenario regarding who might be on the other side of the door!  Such fun and entertainment.  What a joy!

As I lug my bags of new-found treasures home I can’t help but wince a bit as I imagine the shelves filled with previously garnered treasures and wonder where the new ones will make their home.  It feels like losing a good friend when I have to part with a book.  I almost always, think that I may get back to reading it again.  However, space and organization dictate that I must set some free in order for others to take their place.

The very best option, is to find a new home for my books with family and friends, but if that isn’t an option, I like to donate books to someone who can enjoy them as much as I do.  I know that a book is simply an inanimate object, but the pleasure of turning the pages can make any day a little bit brighter.