How long do you keep your books?
Do you keep them to refer back or reread?
Because they're signed or special notes written to you from the giver or author?
Other attachments?
Are books timeless?
While you silently answer those questions... I will chime in. This is a perplexing subject. Being as though I do not like to keep things that's has not been used over a long period of time. Nonetheless, I am an author!
So, I have to ask myself... would I be bothered if someone gotten rid of their copy (signed or not) of my book? The answer honestly varies. Say you've read my book and gained everything that was meant for you. I would not expect you to shelf it forever! Perhaps while it's shelved, someone in your circle or within the book swap community could be benefiting from that said book.
Really, how many times have you re-read a book for leisure or educational purposes?
But it's something about receiving books from the author signed and a added bonus... if you know them personally. It's safe to say, not one book received directly from the author have I considered donating. What a honor for that creative to make me priority, over all else.... JUST TO SIGN my copy! Same sentiments on being gifted books and the receiver penned a personal note. However, if someone decided not to keep those books it should not be viewed as unappreciative. It's a choice.
As for a referring back, one particular read... I have referred to it several times over the years. Which brings me to are books timeless? It depends. If speaking on book with educational focus... we are in a forever changing World. Some terms or practices in a text is likely to change and no longer relevant. However, that text can still serve as a blueprint or reference point. Hence, a paperback dictionary! Not suggesting the words are no longer relevant... more of, the updated word list is excluded. I am speaking from experience on that... ha! That's why having a updated dictionary is essential to your vocabulary.
So where do you stand?