Do you buy physical books you have already read?
For example; I have read a book named “The Words We Keep” digitally. I loved it, it really resonated with me because it’s about something - I personally have and struggle with as well.
Thinking to buy the book physically but feel like, I can’t justify it due to the fact that I’ve already read it.
I don’t really re-read books either.
I only buy books I have already read. Keeps the pocketbook full and my library is only stuff I love.
I don’t really read books digitally (my poor eyes now I’m in my 30s…) or listen to audio books. However, I do have multiple copies of the same book. I have four editions of The Hobbit, for example.
This is something I find interesting because it brings up the question: are books art in their own right, not simply a format for the story? My answer is YES! I love the look and feel of my Folio society edition, I love the smell and memories of my grandfather’s worn copy, I love the annotations in the second hand copy I got from a closing down sale (like the last reader was sharing the experience with me). And I love having a copy I’m willing to give/lend to friends and family that won’t break my heart if it’s lost.
I know I’m dating myself as a child of the 20th century, but I can’t read any of this thread without constantly screaming internally.
I buy books that I have already read if I would like to: have one around, reference, reread, recommend/loan/give, or to start conversations.
If a book was important to me intellectually or emotionally, just having a copy around and just noticing it occasionally reminds myself of whatever was important about it, and that can be valuable to me.
I read a lot of manga on my phone as it is very accessible, and I buy the ones which stand out the most. That is how I got into buying manga and my bank might not approve of the direction I am going XD
I don’t generally, but I’ve often wanted to buy some as ornaments. I’ve also bought one to support the author after reading the book online.
I don’t re-read books but I absolutely buy physical copies of books I’ve bought digitally or borrowed from the library/a friend.
A book that really touches you is a special thing, and it’s nice to have a physical object on your bookshelf which you can see and be reminded of. It’s also nice to go “YOU HAVEN’T READ X? HERE PLEASE READ IT”
