I discovered this blog in 2010, and it’s easy to see its appeal. After all, most people can appreciate the sheer aesthetic pleasure of seeing books as far as the eye can see. Even though I’ve drifted on and off the blog over the years, it’s always one of the first examples that come up when I think of a truly beautiful website.
In an interview with The New Yorker, blog founder Anthony Dever explains his impetus for starting the blog:
“Looking at bookshelves represents the collective feelings of enjoyment that comes from reading books. Plus I love seeing the creative, charming, and interesting ways that people from around the world integrate bookshelves into their homes. People just have this affection and dedication for featuring their books.†The creative possibilities that physical books offer is invigorating and rewarding. Featuring a book on your bookshelf is akin to displaying a trophy. You’ve accomplished something in reading a book; it feels like a victory. The opportunity to display your literary conquests in unique or unexpected ways is something I will greatly miss with e-readers.”
The pleasure starts here.