A Personal Library: The Cozy Retreat of Books

For those of you who have one of these old cozy private libraries with a nice armchair at home, what books are stored in there? My library serves as a haven, a place where I retreat to immerse myself in numerous genres. From Sci-Fi and Fantasy to history and fictional series such as Sherlock Holmes, James Bond, and Patrick O'Brian's The Master and Commander books, the diverse selection of literature here is truly delightful. Winston Churchill, Clausewitz, and Lawrence sit alongside these compelling fictional journeys.

Books in My Collection

Sadly (but happily for my long-suffering wife), some of these books must remain packed away in the loft due to limited space. However, I have Kindle versions for most of them. Notable authors include David Gemmel, Terry Pratchett, E. E. Smith, Raymond E. Feist, and others. The Folio Society is responsible for at least half of my collection. These beautifully illustrated hardcover books#160;printed on acid-free paper make them a worthy addition to every bookshelf. They are guaranteed to last, even as the Folio Society begins to include Sci-Fi and fantasy titles in their catalog, but I doubt they will ever stock the Sci-Fi books I've written.

Decades of Reading

I have read 100 books a year for most of my adult life, including professional and personal reading. The one exception was during 2.5 years of law school where I read extensively through case reporters, legal treatises, and other materials, all of which were primarily accessed in university or state libraries. Throughout my life, I have accumulated over 3000 books, a testament to a lifetime of reading. This love of books is only enhanced by the cozy nooks in my home, like the converted basement with small windows that serve as a perfect reading retreat.

Library Layout

My basement library is 20' x 24' with five windows along the south wall, providing ample natural light for reading. In one corner, there is a comfortable armchair where I often find myself, and a couch sits on another wall. In the middle of the room, there is a small desk for work sessions. My books are organized into five main sections:

Professional and Trade Publications:#160;Including 100 books on police training procedures, and related career resources, totaling about 100 books. Law Books:#160;Accumulated over a 10-year law practice, comprising more than 600 books. Academic Books:#160;From my 20-year academic career, with more than 1500 books. Non-Fiction Books:#160;Comprising collections on naval warfare, military history, philosophy, biography, and many other topics, totaling about 450 books. Fiction Books:#160;The largest section, including a varied interest from juvenile books through great series, with multiple purchases often in spurts during my 30s and 40s.

Final Thoughts

Every book in my library has a story, a memory, and a purpose. It is more than just a collection; it is a reflection of my journey and passions. Each shelf of books is an opportunity to explore new worlds and learn from the past. If a cozy, well-lit corner of your home could house your dream library, think about the books that would fill it. Whether it's for reading, research, or mere pleasure, a personal library can be a very special and enriching space.