Tessa McDermid

This move I’ve been making at home is not going easily.  First, I’m going into a much smaller room.  I had to give up a table and loveseat, which is where I worked on revisions.  I’ve downsized some storage cabinets.  Now, I have to decide which books stay and which books go.  This is not an easy decision for me — I feel like I’m abandoning old friends and family members.

We moved a lot while I was growing up.  Each time, we were allotted so much weight for the move.  Any amount over that limit, we paid for.  We sold furniture, clothes, some appliances. . . but seldom did we sell books!  Books were special and precious. 

Yes, I know I can go to the library and find copies of some of the books on my shelves.  But the library isn’t open late at night when I need a particular reference or when I’m trying to remember the name of a character in a book from way back or. . . I just need to connect with a particular author for a few relaxing moments.

I finally decided to start the process by moving in the bookcases that will fit in the new space.  Then I brought in those books that I must keep:  references, sentimental favorites, hard-to-find-titles.  After that, I added books that were special for other reasons: a friend’s book, examples of a particular genre, TBR.  Once the shelves were filled, the leftover books were moved into boxes in the garage.

Now I have to consider the best way to find them new homes.  A sale is one option.  I also know of a few people who make sure shut-ins receive books on a regular basis.  The books have done wonders for me, helping me through my life, and I hope they can do the same for someone else.  It’s just so hard to let a good book go!