“Our library isn’t very extensive, but every book in it is a friend.”
This simple, profound statement comes from Lucy Maud Montgomery, the celebrated author of Anne of Green Gables. The quote perfectly captures a feeling many book lovers know well. It champions the deep, personal connection we form with stories we love. Furthermore, it gently pushes back against the pressure to own a massive, impersonal collection. Montgomery suggests that the true value of a library lies not in its size, but in the affection we hold for each volume on the shelf.
In an age of endless digital content and towering to-be-read piles, this idea feels more relevant than ever. It invites us to consider what a library truly is: a curated collection of companions that offer comfort, wisdom, and escape. Let’s explore the timeless wisdom behind this beautiful sentiment.
The Power of a Curated Collection
The first part of the quote, “Our library isn’t very extensive,” directly addresses the concept of quality over quantity. Many readers feel a constant pressure to read more and acquire more books. Social media often showcases vast home libraries, creating an unspoken competition. However, Montgomery reminds us that a smaller, more intentional collection can be far more meaningful. A library filled with books you have actually read, cherished, and plan to revisit holds immense personal value.
This approach encourages mindful consumption. Instead of buying a book simply because it’s popular, you might choose one that truly speaks to your interests. Consequently, your shelves become a reflection of your personal journey. Each spine represents a world you explored or a lesson you learned. This curated space becomes a sanctuary, free from the stress of unread books judging you from the corner. It transforms your library from a list of tasks into a collection of triumphs.
When Books Become Friends
The heart of the quote is its beautiful metaphor: “every book in it is a friend.” What does it mean for a book to be a friend? A friend is someone you turn to for comfort in difficult times. A friend offers new perspectives and challenges your thinking. Similarly, a beloved book can provide solace and escape when you need it most. We often revisit these literary friends, finding new details and comforts with each reading.
Think of the books you have read multiple times. These stories feel like coming home. The characters feel like old acquaintances you are excited to see again. This deep familiarity is what Montgomery describes. These books have shaped your worldview, sparked your imagination, or simply made you laugh on a gloomy day. They are more than just paper and ink; they are companions that have journeyed with you through different stages of life. Indeed, this deep, personal bond is what elevates a simple collection of objects into a true personal library.
The Author and Her World
To fully appreciate the quote, we should consider its source. L.M. Montgomery (1874-1942) was a Canadian author whose works often celebrated imagination, nature, and the beauty of close-knit relationships. Her most famous creation, Anne Shirley, is a testament to the power of finding kindred spirits. For Anne, friendship and a love for literature were lifelines. Montgomery’s writing consistently emphasizes deep emotional connections over superficial ones, a theme clearly reflected in this quote.
Her works have had a lasting cultural impact. . This global reach shows how her themes of friendship and finding beauty in the small things resonate with people everywhere. Therefore, when Montgomery writes about books as friends, she is extending the core philosophy that made her stories so beloved. Source
Applying This Wisdom in the Digital Age
Today, we face an unprecedented volume of information. Digital libraries can hold thousands of titles, and social media creates a constant fear of missing out on the next big book. This environment makes Montgomery’s advice particularly powerful. The pressure to keep up can lead to reader burnout and diminish the joy of the experience. In fact, many people own more books than they will ever have time to read.
Building a “friendly” library is an act of defiance against this culture of excess. It means giving yourself permission to reread a favorite novel instead of starting a new one. It involves carefully selecting books that genuinely excite you. You can also prune your collection, letting go of books that no longer serve you. This intentional approach helps you build a library that feels like a true extension of yourself. Ultimately, it brings the focus back to the simple, profound joy of reading a story you love.