bibliomania

Bibliomania is a term used to describe a compulsive obsession with acquiring and possessing books. It is characterized by an excessive and often uncontrollable urge to collect books, regardless of their content or practical value. Individuals suffering from bibliomania may accumulate vast quantities of books, often exceeding their living space and financial resources. This obsession can lead to significant distress and impairment in daily functioning.

The term was first popularized by the English physician Richard de Bury in the 14th century, although the concept of obsessive book collecting has existed for centuries. It is distinct from a general love of reading or a serious interest in bibliography, which are considered healthy pursuits. Bibliomania is specifically about the act of acquiring and hoarding, rather than the appreciation of the literary content.

Symptoms of bibliomania can include spending excessive amounts of time and money on acquiring books, experiencing anxiety or distress when unable to purchase new books, and prioritizing book collecting over other important aspects of life such as relationships or responsibilities. The books collected may not even be read or properly cared for, further highlighting the compulsive nature of the behavior. While not a recognized disorder in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM), it is often considered a form of hoarding disorder or an obsessive-compulsive spectrum disorder. Treatment typically involves therapy, often cognitive-behavioral therapy, to address the underlying compulsive behaviors and psychological factors.