033 - How to declutter Books

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Episode Description: In this episode of Decluttering Untangled, Heather Tingle addresses the emotional and practical aspects of decluttering book collections. Drawing from her experience as a qualified librarian and a decluttering expert, Heather provides valuable advice on managing book clutter without sacrificing your love for reading. Tune in to discover strategies for organising your books, making mindful decisions about what to keep, and how to let go of books without guilt.

Episode Highlights:

• Personal Connection to Books:
  • Heather’s background as a librarian and her love for books.
  • The importance of not viewing your books as a singular collection but as individual items.
• Practical Steps for Decluttering Books:
  • Gather all your books in one place to see the total volume.
  • Sort books into categories (e.g., cooking, fiction, reference, children's books) to make comparison easier.
• Reality vs. Fantasy Self:
  • Distinguishing between books you realistically use and those kept for an idealised version of yourself.
  • Heather’s personal example of owning numerous cookbooks despite hating cooking.
• Space and Accessibility:
  • Avoid double-shelving and stacking books horizontally to prevent a cluttered look.
  • Ensure books are accessible and organised so you can easily find and enjoy them.
• Worthiness and Interest:
  • Question if you are keeping books because they seem “worthy” (e.g., classic literature) rather than because you enjoy them.
  • Focus on books that genuinely excite you and bring you joy.
• Utilising Alternatives:
  • Consider using Audible or online libraries if reading physical books is challenging.
  • The importance of accommodating your needs without guilt.
• Time and Prioritisation:
  • Assess how much time you actually spend reading.
  • Be realistic about your reading pace and prioritise books you are genuinely excited to read.
• Outdated Reference Material:
  • Let go of outdated reference books, manuals, or travel guides that no longer serve a practical purpose.
  • Keep travel guides only if they hold sentimental value as memory triggers.
• Evaluating Worth:
  • Check the actual value of old or first-edition books on platforms like eBay or consult a local auction house.

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