Bibliomaniac

A bibliomaniac is an individual who has an excessive and obsessive passion for collecting books, often driven by an uncontrollable urge to acquire them, regardless of their content, practical use, or financial cost. This compulsive behavior manifests as an insatiable desire to amass a vast library, sometimes neglecting other aspects of life in pursuit of their literary obsession. The bibliomaniac may prioritize the physical attributes of books, such as first editions, rare bindings, or unique signatures, above the actual act of reading or engaging with the text. The condition can be considered a form of obsessive-compulsive disorder and lead to hoarding, financial strain, and social isolation. It is sometimes differentiated from a 'bibliophile', which describes a person who simply loves books.

Bibliomaniac meaning with examples

• Consumed by his bibliomania, Arthur frequented every bookstore, estate sale, and auction in search of rare first editions. His apartment overflowed with books, yet he rarely had time to read them. His family worried about his spending habits and growing isolation, a consequence of his all-consuming book obsession. Arthur acknowledged a problem, but felt powerless to stop.
• Despite his limited space, Thomas's bibliomania drove him to continuously buy more books. He crammed shelves with volumes, stacking them on the floor and the furniture, creating a maze through his home. The unread books piled up, evidence of his acquisition frenzy over their content. Friends and family worried about his health from being inside so much surrounded by the books.
• Sarah's bibliomania was evident from her ever-expanding library. Rare books, first editions, and signed copies filled every available surface. She spent hours cataloging, organizing, and admiring her collection, often at the expense of her work and relationships. Despite the financial and emotional strain, she couldn't resist adding another title to her collection.
• John's journey into bibliomania began innocently, but it quickly consumed his life. He meticulously curated his collection, attending every book fair, and scouring online auctions. The thrill of acquiring a new volume, especially one with unique qualities, became the only thing that mattered. His obsession pushed him to a debt cycle and a lonely lifestyle.
• The sheer scale of Edward's library spoke volumes about his bibliomania. Rooms and rooms were filled, creating the sense of being swallowed by knowledge. He was more interested in the aesthetic of books than actually reading. The condition of the books, the binding, and the smell drove his purchases, leading to an overwhelming collection and debt.