Bibliomania

Brief History of Wood-engraving Ship of Fools Bibliomaniac

Bibliomania refers to the excessive collection and hoarding of books, often to the point where social relations or health are damaged. Individuals suffering from bibliomania are known as bibliomaniacs. The term combines the Greek words biblion (book) and mania (madness, frenzy), highlighting the obsessive nature of the condition. Unlike bibliophiles, who simply love books, bibliomaniacs accumulate books far beyond their personal needs or capacity to read them, driven by compulsion rather than appreciation.

Characteristics

Bibliomania is characterized by the compulsive collecting of books to the extent that it interferes with daily life. Symptoms may include:

• An overwhelming desire to constantly acquire books.
• Accumulating multiple copies of the same book.
• Spending excessive amounts of money on books, regardless of financial situation.
• Difficulty in passing by bookstores without purchasing.
• Hoarding books to the point of creating unsafe living conditions.
• Emotional distress at the idea of parting with books, even if they are never read.

Historical Perspectives

The term "bibliomania" first came into use in the 19th century, a time when the collection of books became particularly fashionable among the wealthy elite of Europe. The most famous case of bibliomania in history is perhaps that of Sir Thomas Phillipps (1792–1872), who aimed to own one copy of every book in the world. His collection grew to over 160,000 volumes, filling his home and numerous outbuildings.

Causes

The exact cause of bibliomania is unknown, but it is thought to be linked to obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Bibliomania shares many characteristics with hoarding disorder, a recognized condition in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). Psychological factors, such as a need for control or a search for identity through books, may also contribute.

Treatment

Treatment for bibliomania typically involves cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which helps individuals recognize and alter harmful thought patterns and behaviors. In cases where bibliomania is part of a broader OCD or hoarding disorder, medications such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) may be prescribed.

Impact

While collecting books is a harmless hobby for many, bibliomania can have serious consequences for those affected. It can lead to financial strain, social isolation, and significant distress. Moreover, the accumulation of books can create physical hazards in one's living environment.

In Popular Culture

Bibliomania has been featured in literature and film, often portrayed with a mix of humor and pathos. Characters with bibliomania are depicted as eccentric and endearing, yet their condition also serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of obsession.