The Reading Dilemma: Why Do Uncounted Books Remain Unopened?

Have you ever found yourself in the situation where a book that has been sitting on your shelf for months, or even years, remains unread? This is a common phenomenon, often referred to as bookshelf syndrome. In this article, we'll explore the reasons why people accumulate books they never get around to reading and provide tips for breaking this cycle.

The Unopened Book Conundrum

It's not a rare sight to find a book that has been on your desk for months but never read. Take, for example, A Man Called Ove, which sits unopened on many a bookshelf. While the book itself might be praised by others, the more common response is a sigh and a resolve to read it "soon."

A Thief: The Molecular Biology of the Cell

Another example is a hefty book like The Molecular Biology of the Cell, which, despite being highly regarded, remains unread. Books like these often come in multiple copies, yet the growing stack on the shelf continues to grow.

The Kindred Spirit Problem

Nonfiction books, especially those on kindle, are favored by many due to their convenience. Yet, even these digital books can succumb to the unopened fate. Take The Great Awakening and The Wages of Destruction, which have been waiting to be read for over a year.

Decaying Promises: Books from Gifts

Gifts meant to be devoured, like A Man Called Ove, often sit untouched. While you may be certain you would enjoy the book, finding time to start reading it is a whole different matter. This is a common issue, especially around festive seasons like Christmas, where books are given but the start of the reading journey is postponed indefinitely.

The Library Return: A Year of Uncertainty

Another story that illustrates the dilemma of unopened books is the one about a library book that was returned after a year without being read. In the height of the pandemic, when libraries were closed, the absence of fines made the return process even more pleasurable.

The Office Library: A Shelf of Unopened Books

Even in professional settings, the plight of unopened books prevails. In an office, there are numerous books on IT and computer science that have never been opened. These books, likely gifts from colleagues or ordered for future reference, gather dust on the shelf.

Success Stories: How to Break the Unopened Habit

While the unopened book syndrome is a significant challenge, there are ways to break free from it. Here are a few tips:

Set Specific Goals: Challenge yourself to read one book in a month or a book every few months. This helps in maintaining a reading habit. Create a Reading Schedule: Allocate specific times for reading, such as during lunch breaks or before bed, to ensure consistent progress. Accessible Reading: Utilize digital platforms and e-books to make reading more convenient and accessible. Plan and Prioritize: Prioritize the books you love or have a burning desire to read, making sure they are the first to be tackled. Seek Recommendations: Ask friends or read online reviews to find highly recommended books to liven up your reading list.

Secondly, having a librarian as a family member or a friend can be a great help in ensuring good reads. The librarian's knowledge of books and the ability to recommend suitable books can make the selection process easier and more enjoyable.

Conclusion

While the unopened book syndrome is prevalent, the key is to stay committed to your reading goals. By setting achievable targets, prioritizing your reading list, and making reading a regular habit, you can transform your bookshelf into a treasure trove of knowledge and enjoyment.