How Many Books Can I Buy Before It Becomes a Problem?

Asking a book lover if they have too many books is like asking if the sky has too much air. It’s a ridiculous question. An insult, even.

But every once in a while, I catch a glimpse of my overflowing shelves, the stacks of unread books teetering dangerously in every available space, and I think: Maybe… just maybe… I should stop buying books for a while.

And then I laugh. Because obviously, that’s nonsense.

However, society (and by society, I mean my partner, my friends, and the delivery person who keeps giving me judgmental looks) seems to believe there is a limit to book collecting. So, let’s break this down scientifically.

Signs You Might Have Too Many Books:

  • You have multiple copies of the same book because the cover was different, and that matters.
  • You’ve run out of bookshelf space, so you start getting “creative” (e.g., books stacked under your bed, in the kitchen, inside your coat closet).
  • You tell yourself you’ll read your TBR pile before buying new books, but we all know that’s a lie.
  • You’ve considered moving just because your current home can’t contain your collection.
  • A new book arrives, and you have to smuggle it inside like it’s contraband.
  • You genuinely believe that books are essential survival items, like food and water.

Signs You’re Completely Fine and Should Keep Buying Books:

  • You love books.
  • That’s it. That’s the whole argument.

Listen, book collecting isn’t just a hobby—it’s a lifestyle. Sure, I might not get around to reading all of them right away (or ever), but that’s not the point. The point is having them. Because each book is full of potential, and sometimes just knowing they’re there is enough.

So, to answer the original question: How many books can I buy before it becomes a problem?

I’ll let you know when I get there.

Now, if you’ll excuse me, there’s a sale happening, and it would be irresponsible not to check it out.

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