Book Buying Addicts Anonymous discussion

I saw this questionnaire in another group and I thought it might be just right for us to try here:

1. Are you careful with the spines? Or do you crack your books open to make them lay flat?

2. Do you use bookmarks? Or do you dog-ear the corners? If you do use bookmarks, do you use those fashionable metal ones? Or paper?

3. Do you write in your books? Ever? If you do, do you make small marks, or write in as much blank space as you can find? Pen or pencil? Highlighter? Your name on the front page?

4. Do you toss your books on the floor? Into book bags? Or do you treat them tenderly, with respect?

5. Do you ever lay your book face-down, to save your place?

6. Do you bathe with your books? Hold them with wet hands? Read out in the rain? Anything of that sort?

7. Are your books lined up on a bookshelf? Or crammed in any which way? Stacked on the floor?

8. Do you make a distinction--in regards to book care--between hardcovers and paperbacks?

9. Naturally, you love all of your books, but how, exactly? Are your books loved in the battered way of a well-loved teddy bear, or like a cherished photo album or item of clothing that's used, appreciated, but carefully cared for?

1. Are you careful with the spines? Or do you crack your books open to make them lay flat?
I'm careful with mine, I'll open them as far they'll go without forcing them.

2. Do you use bookmarks? Or do you dog-ear the corners? If you do use bookmarks, do you use those fashionable metal ones? Or paper?
I like to use paper bookmarks, so much that I enjoy designing special ones for specific books that I like to reread a lot.

3. Do you write in your books? Ever? If you do, do you make small marks, or write in as much blank space as you can find? Pen or pencil? Highlighter? Your name on the front page?
For the longest time I refused to write in any of my books, but I do now have a very few exceptions, like a couple of reference books. But even with those I only use pencil and make as few marks as needed.

4. Do you toss your books on the floor? Into book bags? Or do you treat them tenderly, with respect?
I don't toss, but I do tend to leave books on the floor or in my book bag since I hardly ever go anywhere without a book or two to read.

5. Do you ever lay your book face-down, to save your place?
Never! I don't want to risk damaging the bindings.

6. Do you bathe with your books? Hold them with wet hands? Read out in the rain? Anything of that sort?
Not a chance! Water and paper definately do not mix. :-)

7. Are your books lined up on a bookshelf? Or crammed in any which way? Stacked on the floor?
All of the above. I have my books lined up on the bookshelf with books stacked on top in empty spaces.

8. Do you make a distinction--in regards to book care--between hardcovers and paperbacks?
Not really, I don't discrimiante, I treat all of my books equally. :-)

9. Naturally, you love all of your books, but how, exactly? Are your books loved in the battered way of a well-loved teddy bear, or like a cherished photo album or item of clothing that's used, appreciated, but carefully cared for?
Since I like to reread and collect, I do my best to treat them like an item of clothing that's used, appreciated, but carefully cared for.

1. Are you careful with the spines? Or do you crack your books open to make them lay flat?
Never, even paperbacks.

2. Do you use bookmarks? Or do you dog-ear the corners? If you do use bookmarks, do you use those fashionable metal ones? Or paper?
Usually non-acid paper. A few special bookmarks made from metal and leather but I don't leave them in the book for more than a short time. I will use the dust jacket and fold it in to my stopping place once in a while.

3. Do you write in your books? Ever? If you do, do you make small marks, or write in as much blank space as you can find? Pen or pencil? Highlighter? Your name on the front page? A lot of professional books that have a life span because of changes in technology or manuals, yes. Otherwise the only marking I make in some is a special book plate stamp that I use the same archival ink I do for fine art photographs.

4. Do you toss your books on the floor? Into book bags? Or do you treat them tenderly, with respect? Tenderly and with Respect. They cost a bunch o' money after all!

5. Do you ever lay your book face-down, to save your place? Never intentionally.

6. Do you bathe with your books? Hold them with wet hands? Read out in the rain? Anything of that sort? What? I can't see to read without glasses and contacts always come off in the shower. No I don't read in inclement conditions.

7. Are your books lined up on a bookshelf? Or crammed in any which way? Stacked on the floor? Yes, yes, and yes. Not really on the floor but stacked up on oversize shelves for some huge coffee table and oversize formats. Some paperbacks and manuals and the like are not terribly well organized except by topic. Some of the work books are always on the table or desk when in use.

8. Do you make a distinction--in regards to book care--between hardcovers and paperbacks? Yes but more so with rare books. I keep the paperbacks very separated as I don't always know what the paper is and don't need acid leaching into leather covers or just fine printing.

9. Naturally, you love all of your books, but how, exactly? Are your books loved in the battered way of a well-loved teddy bear, or like a cherished photo album or item of clothing that's used, appreciated, but carefully cared for? Some books have had a lot of 'lovin' over the years and are tired. Then there are some collectibles and first and special editions that reside in glass door fronted cases. Quite a range really.

1. I don't like my book spines to have cracks in. I have a friend who will take a book to see what I'm reading and she forces it right open... It's so depressing.

2. I use scraps of paper for bookmarks.

3. I occasionally underline things in pencil.

4. I'm pretty gentle with my books, mainly because I never really have a reason to throw them about.

5. My sister lays her books down flat to save the place and can leave it like that for days... I stopped lending her my books because of that. It makes the covers of paperbacks curl up.

6. Nope.

7. I keep my books on a bookshelf. I've got far too many, so I guess they're pretty crammed in and there's some lying on their sides on top. I also keep whatever books I'm reading stacked on my desk.

8. I don't make a distinction between hardcovers and paperbacks... are you supposed to?

9. I'm a naturally careful person, so my books are in good condition, but you can tell they're well used.

Joseph wrote: "I like to use paper bookmarks, so much that I enjoy designing special ones for specific books that I like to reread a lot. "

That's very cool! Do you have examples? Do you draw characters or scenery or something else?

1. Are you careful with the spines? Or do you crack your books open to make them lay flat?

Somewhere in-between, I guess. I don't pay particular attention to it but I don't deliberately crack the spine either.

2. Do you use bookmarks? Or do you dog-ear the corners? If you do use bookmarks, do you use those fashionable metal ones? Or paper?

If I can find my magnetic bookmarks I will use those. I've been reading a lot of library books lately so I've been using the hold slip to mark my place.

3. Do you write in your books? Ever? If you do, do you make small marks, or write in as much blank space as you can find? Pen or pencil? Highlighter? Your name on the front page?

The only books I've ever written in were when I was writing a dedication to the person to whom I was giving the book. I used a highlighter on books in college.

4. Do you toss your books on the floor? Into book bags? Or do you treat them tenderly, with respect?

I don't toss them on the floor deliberately, but some have ended up there after falling off the bed at night. I've stuffed some in my computer bag.

5. Do you ever lay your book face-down, to save your place?

Occasionally. Usually it's for a short amount of time though.

6. Do you bathe with your books? Hold them with wet hands? Read out in the rain? Anything of that sort?

I really enjoy reading books in the bathtub but I'm careful not to touch the pages with wet hands. Once, when I was a child, I attempted to read a book in the shower. It did not end well for the book. (Sorry Bridge to Terabithia).


7. Are your books lined up on a bookshelf? Or crammed in any which way? Stacked on the floor?

The vast majority of my books are on a shelf (alphabetically by author) but I do have a few stacks on the floor.

8. Do you make a distinction--in regards to book care--between hardcovers and paperbacks?

No.

9. Naturally, you love all of your books, but how, exactly? Are your books loved in the battered way of a well-loved teddy bear, or like a cherished photo album or item of clothing that's used, appreciated, but carefully cared for?

Most of my books are in good condition but I do have a few that have been read so often they're falling apart.

1. Are you careful with the spines? Or do you crack your books open to make them lay flat?

I'm not overly careful, but I don't deliberately crack them open either. Just open them enough to read comfortably.

2. Do you use bookmarks? Or do you dog-ear the corners? If you do use bookmarks, do you use those fashionable metal ones? Or paper?

I use card bookmarks. I like to collect the free bookmarks from the library and bookshops.

3. Do you write in your books? Ever? If you do, do you make small marks, or write in as much blank space as you can find? Pen or pencil? Highlighter? Your name on the front page?

I only write in my text books for college.

4. Do you toss your books on the floor? Into book bags? Or do you treat them tenderly, with respect?

I don't toss them anywhere. I treat them with respect.

5. Do you ever lay your book face-down, to save your place?

Yes, but only for a few seconds if the phone rings or something.

6. Do you bathe with your books? Hold them with wet hands? Read out in the rain? Anything of that sort?

No way, books and water don't mix.

7. Are your books lined up on a bookshelf? Or crammed in any which way? Stacked on the floor?

All lined up on bookshelves in alphabetical order. I'm really anal about having my books shelved neatly.

8. Do you make a distinction--in regards to book care--between hardcovers and paperbacks?

No, I treat them all the same way.

9. Naturally, you love all of your books, but how, exactly? Are your books loved in the battered way of a well-loved teddy bear, or like a cherished photo album or item of clothing that's used, appreciated, but carefully cared for?

Definitely like a well-loved teddy bear. I couldn't bear to have books that I'd be too scared to touch. Although I still look after my books and keep them clean and in one piece!
Even when I buy collectable books I only buy the battered ones so that I can enjoy them without worrying too much about damaging them.

1. Are you careful with the spines? Or do you crack your books open to make them lay flat?

I never really took notice until my sister pointed it out, but I do not crack the spines. I open them until it is comfortable to read. That is what matters. Comfort and a good story.

2. Do you use bookmarks? Or do you dog-ear the corners? If you do use bookmarks, do you use those fashionable metal ones? Or paper?

Bookmarks. Have a few "fashionable metal" ones, but I prefer the paper ones with fun sayings.

3. Do you write in your books? Ever? If you do, do you make small marks, or write in as much blank space as you can find? Pen or pencil? Highlighter? Your name on the front page?

Depends on the book. The books that are for pleasure, no way do I right in those. Books that are meant to teach me something I mark those up really well. I want to take away something and be able to find it quickly. Pleasure books I tend to recall easier than learning books.

4. Do you toss your books on the floor? Into book bags? Or do you treat them tenderly, with respect?

I lay them on the floor when I need to go do something. I have carried them in my bags. I want my book with me. I try to show respect, but don't want to not love them.

5. Do you ever lay your book face-down, to save your place?

I try very hard not to lay a book faced-down. It bends the pages.

6. Do you bathe with your books? Hold them with wet hands? Read out in the rain? Anything of that sort?

No, I do not bathe with my books. Nope, won't hold them with wet hands. Occasionally they do get transported through the rain, but I try to tuck them. One bad experience camping cured me of that.

7. Are your books lined up on a bookshelf? Or crammed in any which way? Stacked on the floor?

They are lined in double layers. A few can't be lined because I have almost outgrown my book shelves, so they do get laid on top of other books. Prefer not to use the floor unless it is for a few seconds while doing other things.

8. Do you make a distinction--in regards to book care--between hardcovers and paperbacks?

Nope, a book just needs to be loved. I do tend to buy books in the same series alike, but that is my only distinction.

9. Naturally, you love all of your books, but how, exactly? Are your books loved in the battered way of a well-loved teddy bear, or like a cherished photo album or item of clothing that's used, appreciated, but carefully cared for?

I hope my books are like a cherished photo album. Well, used, but still respected.

1. Very careful.
2. Paper book marks
3. Never!
4. Tenderly! I even have a special cloth bag I made in my purse to put books in so they don't get dirty!
5. Only in the case of an extreme child-related emergency!
6. Never!
7. On bookshelves, many laying on their sides and stacked up to the top of the shelf.
8. I remove dust jackets when reading hard covers and place them in a safe place til done.
9. Used, appreciated and carefully cared for.

1. I try to be care full of my books and spine of the books, but occasionally accidents happen- then I am not happy and attempt to straighten them out.
2. I use thin plastic or paper bookmarks.
3. I will only write my name address and phone # if I lend out the book.
4. I do put books in carry bags- especially if it is raining outside.
5. No, I do not like that- not a very reliable way to bookmark and not good for spines.
6. Many years ago I used to read while in the bathtub but I have not done that in over 25 years ago. Occasionally I have gotten caught out in the rain- I will put it inside my coat, jacket or under my shirt.
7. Usually stacked on top of each other to top of the shelf or stacked in boxes. I would love to have a room dedicated to shelving- floor to ceiling- wall to wall. With comfy chairs, desk, etc. like a real library.
8. I try to keep extra care of my hardbacks and paperbacks that I want to keep.
9. I love my books. I would love more bookshelves and room to place them and keep them dusted.

1. Are you careful with the spines? Or do you crack your books open to make them lay flat?

I am not overly careful but I don't crack them so that the spine gets broken. I open them as much as it's necessary to read comfortably.

2. Do you use bookmarks? Or do you dog-ear the corners? If you do use bookmarks, do you use those fashionable metal ones? Or paper?

I usually use bookmarks, or anything that can serve as one - old tickets, recipts, tissues. Very seldom I do little dogears, though I generally don't like it.

3. Do you write in your books? Ever? If you do, do you make small marks, or write in as much blank space as you can find? Pen or pencil? Highlighter? Your name on the front page?

As a rule I don't write in books. I used to do that only in the books I needed for my studies. If I want to note down something, I take a separate piece of paper and write on it and I leave it in the book.
I have never written my name or anything like that in my books.

4. Do you toss your books on the floor? Into book bags? Or do you treat them tenderly, with respect?

I try to treat them tenderly but it does happen that I leave my book on the floor or carry it in my bag - I almost neverd leave home without a copy of a book.

5. Do you ever lay your book face-down, to save your place?

Only for a second, never for a longer period of time.

6. Do you bathe with your books? Hold them with wet hands? Read out in the rain? Anything of that sort?

I have to confess - yes, I do bathe with a book, not very often but it does happen. I try to be very careful when doing it as I don't like when a book gets wet. But I never take a book when my hands are wet and certainly I don't read in the rain!

7. Are your books lined up on a bookshelf? Or crammed in any which way? Stacked on the floor?

I guess they would be lined up if I had enough space for them all.

8. Do you make a distinction--in regards to book care--between hardcovers and paperbacks?

No, I don't distinct between hardcovers and paperbacks. A book is a book, regardless of the cover.

9. Naturally, you love all of your books, but how, exactly? Are your books loved in the battered way of a well-loved teddy bear, or like a cherished photo album or item of clothing that's used, appreciated, but carefully cared for?

I loved them as a well-loved teddy bear. Every now and then I take them in my hands, leaf through, remove the dust or reread. Some of them are visibly used, some less but generally they are all much respected.

1. Are you careful with the spines? Or do you crack your books open to make them lay flat?
***Careful, I like my keepers to look as new as possible and keep my trades/sales in good condition too.

2. Do you use bookmarks? Or do you dog-ear the corners? If you do use bookmarks, do you use those fashionable metal ones? Or paper?
***I use paperclips. They don't bend or damage the pages and they don't fall out (most of the time)

3. Do you write in your books? Ever? If you do, do you make small marks, or write in as much blank space as you can find? Pen or pencil? Highlighter? Your name on the front page?
***rarely do I write in a book and if I do it's probably a text book and I use pencil

4. Do you toss your books on the floor? Into book bags? Or do you treat them tenderly, with respect?
***Toss books???? Blasphemy! I'm rarely careless with anything I own and even less so with things I've borrowed.

5. Do you ever lay your book face-down, to save your place?
***Nope, that's the great thing about paperclip book marks. Even if I manage to drop the book my place is always saved

6. Do you bathe with your books? Hold them with wet hands? Read out in the rain? Anything of that sort?
***The bathtub is one of my favorite reading spots, but no wet hands on books.

7. Are your books lined up on a bookshelf? Or crammed in any which way? Stacked on the floor?
***Lined up from shortest to tallest with certain authors and series grouped together.

8. Do you make a distinction--in regards to book care--between hardcovers and paperbacks?
****yes

9. Naturally, you love all of your books, but how, exactly? Are your books loved in the battered way of a well-loved teddy bear, or like a cherished photo album or item of clothing that's used, appreciated, but carefully cared for?
***a few series are very "well loved" and I tend to purchase used books so some of them are "well loved" when I get them but I am gentle on them all.

1. Are you careful with the spines? Or do you crack your books open to make them lay flat?

I open them enough to be able to read them comfortably. I buy a lot of used books, so, unfortunately, I’ve got some in my library that have broken spines.

2. Do you use bookmarks? Or do you dog-ear the corners? If you do use bookmarks, do you use those fashionable metal ones? Or paper?
I use bookmarks. I often get paper bookmarks with the books I buy online, so I usually have some of them floating around. I have been known to use post-it notes to mark my place, because they do a good job. I never dog-ear the corners of pages. I’ve seen too many older books with pages that have the corners broken off because people have done that.

3. Do you write in your books? Ever? If you do, do you make small marks, or write in as much blank space as you can find? Pen or pencil? Highlighter? Your name on the front page?
I do write in books that I am really trying to absorb. I usually use a pencil, and usually write on the top of the pages, if there is enough room. I find that I really understand a book a lot better if I write a brief synopsis of each page at the top when I’ve finished reading it.

4. Do you toss your books on the floor? Into book bags? Or do you treat them tenderly, with respect?
I respect my books, but they wind up lying about everywhere. I don’t put them anywhere that they’ll come to harm deliberately, but don’t think that winding up on the floor for a little while is going to hurt anything.

5. Do you ever lay your book face-down, to save your place?
No. It hurts the books and I don’t like that.

6. Do you bathe with your books? Hold them with wet hands? Read out in the rain? Anything of that sort?
I take showers, so bathing with my books would be a little ludicrous. I don’t get them wet b/c that will ruin them quicker than almost anything else.

7. Are your books lined up on a bookshelf? Or crammed in any which way? Stacked on the floor?
I’m completely run out of room on all of my book shelves, so they’re jammed into what space is left and stacked up in various other places.

8. Do you make a distinction--in regards to book care--between hardcovers and paperbacks?
I remove the dust jackets of my hardcovers when I’m reading them, as they tend to slide and annoy me. Other than that, no, not really.

9. Naturally, you love all of your books, but how, exactly? Are your books loved in the battered way of a well-loved teddy bear, or like a cherished photo album or item of clothing that's used, appreciated, but carefully cared for?
Kind of in the middle. I have some books that are ready to fall apart from being read dozens of times, but I don’t deliberately abuse them. I care for them, but am not unreasonable.

1. Are you careful with the spines? Or do you crack your books open to make them lay flat?
Careful.

2. Do you use bookmarks? Or do you dog-ear the corners? If you do use bookmarks, do you use those fashionable metal ones? Or paper?
No bookmarks usually. I have a nice, tiny double dollar bill magnetic one, very kitsch, but I can't usually find it. I use the jacket just remember where I am mostly.

3. Do you write in your books? Ever? If you do, do you make small marks, or write in as much blank space as you can find? Pen or pencil? Highlighter? Your name on the front page?
I never write in books.

4. Do you toss your books on the floor? Into book bags? Or do you treat them tenderly, with respect?
I always have one paperback as my bag book and that gets tossed in my handbag but all other books are treated very respectfully.

5. Do you ever lay your book face-down, to save your place?
No. It might break the spine.

6. Do you bathe with your books? Hold them with wet hands? Read out in the rain? Anything of that sort?
Lol. No. But I do sit out on the terrace in storms (I live in a rainforest) and sometimes they get a bit spotted, soon dries though.

7. Are your books lined up on a bookshelf? Or crammed in any which way? Stacked on the floor?
Bookshelves full now, but some have double-layers of books. Mostly they are in boxes, at least a 1,000 of them are.

8. Do you make a distinction--in regards to book care--between hardcovers and paperbacks?
I sometimes take off the jackets of hardbacks and I definitely take more care of hbs than paperbacks.

9. Naturally, you love all of your books, but how, exactly? Are your books loved in the battered way of a well-loved teddy bear, or like a cherished photo album or item of clothing that's used, appreciated, but carefully cared for?
None of those. They are just books. I don't really love them, I just like the way they look, how they fill a room. I love book I haven't read but own though.

This makes it sound like I really take good care of books, and I do try, but I tend to read when I eat and , disgusting as it sounds, I do drop bits on them occasionally, but I think that's my only really bad book habit.

1. Are you careful with the spines? Or do you crack your books open to make them lay flat?
I only open them enough to read the pages. I'm not super careful with them but I don't recall ever cracking a spine of a book.

2. Do you use bookmarks? Or do you dog-ear the corners? If you do use bookmarks, do you use those fashionable metal ones? Or paper?
I use almost everything as a bookmark. I have magnetic bookmarks that I try to use but often I use post it notes, paperclips, receipts, business cards, etc...

3. Do you write in your books? Ever? If you do, do you make small marks, or write in as much blank space as you can find? Pen or pencil? Highlighter? Your name on the front page?
When I have books that are part of a series, I write the number of the order of the book in the top left hand corner of the inside front cover in pen.

4. Do you toss your books on the floor? Into book bags? Or do you treat them tenderly, with respect?
I don't throw my books on the floor but they do occasionally wind up there for whatever reason. I usually carry whatever book I'm reading in my purse.

5. Do you ever lay your book face-down, to save your place?
Not anymore. With two kids, two dogs and a cat I can't guarantee that my place will be held like that. I usually use my cell phone as a temporary place marker.

6. Do you bathe with your books? Hold them with wet hands? Read out in the rain? Anything of that sort?
I don't take baths and showers and books don't mix. I have been known to read a book in the rain, under an umbrella of course.

7. Are your books lined up on a bookshelf? Or crammed in any which way? Stacked on the floor?
My books are on bookshelves, alphabetized by author and sorted by genre. I have books on top of the bookshelves as well but they are sorted; unread library books, read library books, new (purchased) books, and books listed on PBS all have separate piles.

8. Do you make a distinction--in regards to book care--between hardcovers and paperbacks?
No, a book is a book is a book.

9. Naturally, you love all of your books, but how, exactly? Are your books loved in the battered way of a well-loved teddy bear, or like a cherished photo album or item of clothing that's used, appreciated, but carefully cared for?
I'd say 99% of my books are loved in the way of a well-loved teddy bear. There are a few exceptions where I treat them like a cherished photo album, like the version of Hamlet I picked up at a thrift store published in 1904. Its delicate and I treat it as such.

1. Are you careful with the spines? Or do you crack your books open to make them lay flat? I'm not very careful with the poor things unless they are a hardback. They get shoved in my purse & carted around constantly.

2. Do you use bookmarks? Or do you dog-ear the corners? If you do use bookmarks, do you use those fashionable metal ones? Or paper? I use paper. Right now I'm using a folded piece of notebook paper that my 3 year old had drawn Spiderman on.

3. Do you write in your books? Ever? If you do, do you make small marks, or write in as much blank space as you can find? Pen or pencil? Highlighter? Your name on the front page? The only times I can ever remember writing in a book was when I read Prozac Nation & then my Bible to make notes.

4. Do you toss your books on the floor? Into book bags? Or do you treat them tenderly, with respect? It' my purse. On the floor. I fall asleep with them. You name it.

5. Do you ever lay your book face-down, to save your place? Yes! Constantly.

6. Do you bathe with your books? Hold them with wet hands? Read out in the rain? Anything of that sort? I have been known to bathe with a book. Just a warm bath & a book. It's nice.

7. Are your books lined up on a bookshelf? Or crammed in any which way? Stacked on the floor? My books are everywhere. I don't have room!

8. Do you make a distinction--in regards to book care--between hardcovers and paperbacks? Yes. I treat hardcovers better.

9. Naturally, you love all of your books, but how, exactly? Are your books loved in the battered way of a well-loved teddy bear, or like a cherished photo album or item of clothing that's used, appreciated, but carefully cared for? Battered way of a well-loved teddy bear. For sure.

1. Are you careful with the spines? Or do you crack your books open to make them lay flat?
If it's a hardback with a cover that I find appealing then I handle it like gold but if it's just a random hardback then I'll abuse it to no end--albeit unintentionally. And paperbacks I generally try to not crease the spine.

2. Do you use bookmarks? Or do you dog-ear the corners? If you do use bookmarks, do you use those fashionable metal ones? Or paper? I use animal shaped plastic bookmarks that stick to the top of the page because they won't slip off like paper or damage a page like metal. If I don't have one handy then I use anything and everything around me. Receipts, pens, erasers, coins, etc.

3. Do you write in your books? Ever? If you do, do you make small marks, or write in as much blank space as you can find? Pen or pencil? Highlighter? Your name on the front page? I tend to not write in books because I have atrocious handwriting and I don't want to see it marring the pages of my books. I'm often tempted to though, if I find something I want to comment on or highlight.

4. Do you toss your books on the floor? Into book bags? Or do you treat them tenderly, with respect? Again, it depends on which book it is. If it's one I like then I treat them with utmost respect (lol) but if it's a leisure read I toss them any which way I like.

5. Do you ever lay your book face-down, to save your place? No, because it makes creases in the spine.

6. Do you bathe with your books? Hold them with wet hands? Read out in the rain? Anything of that sort? I have been known to photocopy pages in the book I'm reading and take those pages into the shower with me in a plastic ziplock bag. It's time consuming to prepare but worth it...most of the time. The only negative is that I sometimes run out of pages to read before I finish showering.

7. Are your books lined up on a bookshelf? Or crammed in any which way? Stacked on the floor? My favorites have a special place on my shelves; all others are crammed in any free and flat surface possible or stacked haphazardly on top of and under and next to each other.

8. Do you make a distinction--in regards to book care--between hardcovers and paperbacks? Yeup! I pay more money for those hardcovers, so why not? Especially when they look especially nice.

9. Naturally, you love all of your books, but how, exactly? Are your books loved in the battered way of a well-loved teddy bear, or like a cherished photo album or item of clothing that's used, appreciated, but carefully cared for? Well loved teddy bear. I sometimes clean the covers of pretty hardcover books with rubbing alcohol to make them look nice and shiny.

1. Are you careful with the spines? Or do you crack your books open to make them lay flat?

If I can, I'll crack them, and then, when I'm done on that section and it no longer cracks right on the spot I'm reading, I'll recrack it so it still stays open. I'm so mean to my books.

2. Do you use bookmarks? Or do you dog-ear the corners? If you do use bookmarks, do you use those fashionable metal ones? Or paper?

I do both. So, sometimes I use bookmarks, and sometimes I don't and just fold it over. I always forget to use bookmarks... oftentimes I end up using other random objects, like the TV remote. I also have the bad habit of leaving my books spine up, open.

3. Do you write in your books? Ever? If you do, do you make small marks, or write in as much blank space as you can find? Pen or pencil? Highlighter? Your name on the front page?

I write all over my books, especially the ones I really like. If I don't have a pencil handy, I won't go out of my way to find one, but I do underline stuff, highlight, doodle, scribble notes, write my name, book plates... you name it. On some of my books I have little reminders of where I was when I read it, what significance it had in my life at the time.

4. Do you toss your books on the floor? Into book bags? Or do you treat them tenderly, with respect?

I treat my books tenderly, and with respect. Sometimes that includes setting them on the floor or in a book bag.

5. Do you ever lay your book face-down, to save your place?

*glances around nervously* Yes, unfortunately.

6. Do you bathe with your books? Hold them with wet hands? Read out in the rain? Anything of that sort?

I have dropped my fair share of books in the bathtub. The only book to date I think I've read in the rain was Deathly Hallows.

7. Are your books lined up on a bookshelf? Or crammed in any which way? Stacked on the floor?

All of the above. My shelves are stacked to bursting, so those that didn't fit are crammed in the spaces, on the floor, on my desk, in my bed... you name it, they're there.

8. Do you make a distinction--in regards to book care--between hardcovers and paperbacks?

I'm less careful with paperbacks, because, generally, I only buy hardcover copies of books I really enjoyed or have looked forward to for a long time.

9. Naturally, you love all of your books, but how, exactly? Are your books loved in the battered way of a well-loved teddy bear, or like a cherished photo album or item of clothing that's used, appreciated, but carefully cared for?

My books are battered. I once read a quote that said, "A collector that brings me a book that is perfectly clean... that is a kind of creepy feeling. I feel like that book is dead," or something of that sort. I live by this. My books are torn and worn and beautiful.

1. Are you careful with the spines? Or do you crack your books open to make them lay flat?

I try to be careful with the spines. Sometimes they get cracked though, especially softcovers. I have to say though that my husband gets a little pissy (sorry) when I crack the spines because he takes much pride in putting my library together for me.

2. Do you use bookmarks? Or do you dog-ear the corners? If you do use bookmarks, do you use those fashionable metal ones? Or paper?

I NEVER dog-ear corners! I hate that and it defames the book in my opinion. I usually just remember my place and go back to it although I have been know to use paper to mark my place from time to time.

3. Do you write in your books? Ever? If you do, do you make small marks, or write in as much blank space as you can find? Pen or pencil? Highlighter? Your name on the front page?

I used to write notes in the sidelines when I was in college and it was a required read to remind myself of my thoughts. But now I only occasionally write in a book. For instance in Clockwork Angel if Clare had written something in another language I would look it up and write the translation of it in the book beside it in pencil. But that is a rare case and I used to write my name in my books but I have stopped that too. I only used to do it when it was a gift from someone but now all my books are gifts from my husband (and there's a lot of them) so I know who they are from and no longer do that.

4. Do you toss your books on the floor? Into book bags? Or do you treat them tenderly, with respect?

I have a basket beside my recliner in which I place my books when I am not reading them otherwise they are filed neatly on a shelf, several selves actually. I try my best to treat them with respect and not let them get damaged.

5. Do you ever lay your book face-down, to save your place?

Only if I am leaving it for a little while. Usually no longer than an hour if I can help it.

6. Do you bathe with your books? Hold them with wet hands? Read out in the rain? Anything of that sort?

I do occasionally read in the bathtub but I am extremely careful not to get the book wet and never handle it with wet hands. I have never read out in the rain.

7. Are your books lined up on a bookshelf? Or crammed in any which way? Stacked on the floor?

All of my books are on shelves. Four big shelves actually and most of them are in some kind of order whether alphabetically or by series. We are actually running out of room to put the shelves in our movie/book room and are either going to have to add onto the house or start putting them in other rooms lol.

8. Do you make a distinction--in regards to book care--between hardcovers and paperbacks?

Not really. I buy what is available. If I find it in hardcovers I buy it and if it's in softcover I buy it. It just depends on what I find.

9. Naturally, you love all of your books, but how, exactly? Are your books loved in the battered way of a well-loved teddy bear, or like a cherished photo album or item of clothing that's used, appreciated, but carefully cared for?

I would have to say a cross between a cherished photo album and an item of clothing that's used, appreciated, but carefully cared for. I love my books because they take my out of this world and calm me. Even the smell of a book can calm me. I take very good care of my library but I am not the kind of person that would be like, "No! You can touch one!" lol! They are also cherished because my husband buys them for me constantly. He knows exactly what I like and what I want and that makes them special to me. For instance, yesterday he found hard bound editions of Dracula, Frankenstein, Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, and Dorian Gray. He came home and immediately told me about them and even though I own them these were special editions and he gave me the money and sent me straight back to the book store. That is what makes my library extra special.

1. Are you careful with the spines? Or do you crack your books open to make them lay flat? *I'm sooo careful! If I'm reading a new paperback I avoid creacing the spine at all costs lol!*

2. Do you use bookmarks? Or do you dog-ear the corners? If you do use bookmarks, do you use those fashionable metal ones? Or paper? *I use bookmarks. Either a slim metal one or my favorite plastic bookmark sleeve.*

3. Do you write in your books? Ever? If you do, do you make small marks, or write in as much blank space as you can find? Pen or pencil? Highlighter? Your name on the front page? *I never write in books, unless they're for college.*

4. Do you toss your books on the floor? Into book bags? Or do you treat them tenderly, with respect? *I treat them a gently and my beloved cat "Taxi."*

5. Do you ever lay your book face-down, to save your place? *Oh that's a big no-no.*

6. Do you bathe with your books? Hold them with wet hands? Read out in the rain? Anything of that sort? *hmmm I would have to be VERY angry at the person who gave me the book LOL, otherwise no.*

7. Are your books lined up on a bookshelf? Or crammed in any which way? Stacked on the floor? *Lined up in series order and order I intend to read them in."

8. Do you make a distinction--in regards to book care--between hardcovers and paperbacks? *No.*

9. Naturally, you love all of your books, but how, exactly? Are your books loved in the battered way of a well-loved teddy bear, or like a cherished photo album or item of clothing that's used, appreciated, but carefully cared for? *The 2nd..more like the cherished photo."

1) Actually, I like a book with a really flexible spine. Adds spice.

2) I have some very nice metal bookmarks from Europe.

3) I never write inside books. Never ever.

4) I don't toss books around and don't let them toss me around either.

5) Do I lay books open flat? Duh.

6) Can't read without glasses. Don't wear glasses in the shower. Is this really a question? Oh, bathtub, well, I have been known to read in the bathtub but it never ends well.

7) My books are lined up and crammed in and stacked on the floor and piled on tabletops and under chairs and in boxes in the basement. Found one behind the cereal boxes one day. Wonder how that happened.

8) I do treat hardcovers that went to finishing school better than those slutty paperbacks.

9) How do I love my books? Actually, I learned about this at a tender age in the back seat of a '66 Ford Fairlane. You'd hardly know it to look at me now. :)

1. Are you careful with the spines? Or do you crack your books open to make them lay flat?
I get a lot of books used at library book sales, so I have a lot with broken spines, but I try not to break them

2. Do you use bookmarks? Or do you dog-ear the corners? If you do use bookmarks, do you use those fashionable metal ones? Or paper?
I use bookmarks. I have a lot of the cardboard ones that I bought at bookstores. I have a couple of string bookmarks, but they have dangly bits on either end, so they have tendency to become cat toys so I don't use them that often. If I'm reading a hardback, I will sometimes use the dust jacket flap. If all else fails, I'll use a piece of scrap paper. If there are no other options, I will just close the book and hope I can find my place later. I NEVER, EVER dog ear the page.

3. Do you write in your books? Ever? If you do, do you make small marks, or write in as much blank space as you can find? Pen or pencil? Highlighter? Your name on the front page?
I don't write in my books. I have a few favorite hardbacks that have a bookplate with my name on the front page.

4. Do you toss your books on the floor? Into book bags? Or do you treat them tenderly, with respect?
I don't toss them around. I do carry them in a tote bag or a big purse.

5. Do you ever lay your book face-down, to save your place?
Once, in recent memory, I did lay a book face down. One of my neices that I babysit for started screaming bloody murder about something and I have to rush off to see if she was dying. When I got back to the table and saw what I had done to the book, I was appalled.

6. Do you bathe with your books? Hold them with wet hands? Read out in the rain? Anything of that sort?
Nope, don't bathe with the books.

7. Are your books lined up on a bookshelf? Or crammed in any which way? Stacked on the floor?
For the most part, they're lined up nicely on the shelf. I do have a few piles of paperbacks on my desk and the top of the bookshelf waiting to be filed.

8. Do you make a distinction--in regards to book care--between hardcovers and paperbacks?
Not really. I try to put them back on the shelf when I'm done.

9. Naturally, you love all of your books, but how, exactly? Are your books loved in the battered way of a well-loved teddy bear, or like a cherished photo album or item of clothing that's used, appreciated, but carefully cared for?
I don't batter them. They are cherised and appreciated.

1. Are you careful with the spines? Or do you crack your books open to make them lay flat?

EEK! I never crack them open! I try to preserve the spine as long as possible.

2. Do you use bookmarks? Or do you dog-ear the corners? If you do use bookmarks, do you use those fashionable metal ones? Or paper?

Dog-ears? *shudder* I use an old postcard to keep my place. I collect bookmarks and never like to use them in a book in case they get damaged!

3. Do you write in your books? Ever? If you do, do you make small marks, or write in as much blank space as you can find? Pen or pencil? Highlighter? Your name on the front page?

I never write inside my books in case I decide I don't like it and want to trade it on.

4. Do you toss your books on the floor? Into book bags? Or do you treat them tenderly, with respect?

With respect! Book belongs on chair beside bed, not on the floor!

5. Do you ever lay your book face-down, to save your place?

No! Not even when running to the loo!

6. Do you bathe with your books? Hold them with wet hands? Read out in the rain? Anything of that sort?

I never read in the bath

7. Are your books lined up on a bookshelf? Or crammed in any which way? Stacked on the floor?

All books are on the bookshelves, geberal fiction sorted alphabetically. Other books are grouped by author and subject. Very anal!

8. Do you make a distinction--in regards to book care--between hardcovers and paperbacks?

I love 'em all the same!

9. Naturally, you love all of your books, but how, exactly? Are your books loved in the battered way of a well-loved teddy bear, or like a cherished photo album or item of clothing that's used, appreciated, but carefully cared for?

My books are cherished and lovingly looked after so I can have many happy years with them...

1. Are you careful with the spines? ... I used to just read without thinking, until I became more aware of condition; someone I worked with bragged about how her books never ever showed wear on the spines, which sparked some idiotic competetive impulse in me. If the book is new when I read it, I try to be careful, but I buy to read.

2. Do you use bookmarks? ... I use bookmarks; if I have an "official" one handy I use it, but otherwise I use any piece of paper I have nearby. I like to grab a few paint chips when I go by the home improvement area of a store - they're perfect bookmarks: thin enough to not be obnoxious but thick enough that I don't have to hunt for my place. I have a metal one which is just gorgeous, but totally useless as a bookmark - it just falls out. I never dogear - though I did as a kid.

3. Do you write in your books? - nope.

4. Do you toss your books on the floor? Into book bags? Or do you treat them tenderly, with respect? - I only toss the ones I hate on the floor. :) I have book bags everywhere, waiting for me to organize them, someday when I have time. (*snert*) There are a few I treasure - Guy Kays, and signed copies, and old books, and my hands are clean when I handle them; otherwise, I treat books with respect but not necessarily reverence. I mean them no harm, and regret it if harm comes to them.

5. Do you ever lay your book face-down, to save your place? - Hardcover, sometimes, especially library books; they can take it. Paperbacks, rarely, and only carefully not to split the spine.

6. Do you bathe with your books? - Used to; I loved reading in the tub. Only dropped one. Now I only ever shower; not that I wouldn't like to read while I do that. Maybe I'll invent a waterproof book-holder/page-turner. No wet hands, no rain. Water + books = bad.

7. Are your books lined up on a bookshelf? Or crammed in any which way? Stacked on the floor?
Yes. As many as possible are stacked on bookshelves, organized alphabetically and by genre. The books there was no room for - lots of 'em - are stacked on the floor and in bags.

8. Do you make a distinction--in regards to book care--between hardcovers and paperbacks?
Sort of. I've generally paid more for a hardcover, and a hardcover is more likely to be worth something (not that I'm likely to sell up).

9. Naturally, you love all of your books, but how, exactly? Are your books loved in the battered way of a well-loved teddy bear, or like a cherished photo album or item of clothing that's used, appreciated, but carefully cared for?
- Yes. Some of my old books are exactly like well-loved teddy bears - it's a great simile; I reread, so inevitably some books are going to show it. But all books, even the ones I don't much like the content of, are to be appreciated.

1. Are you careful with the spines? Or do you crack your books open to make them lay flat?

Not particularly careful. Unless it's one of my favorites and I want to keep it in good condition.

2. Do you use bookmarks? Or do you dog-ear the corners? If you do use bookmarks, do you use those fashionable metal ones? Or paper?

Oh, I dog ear the corners so bad. Unless it's a library book.

3. Do you write in your books? Ever? If you do, do you make small marks, or write in as much blank space as you can find? Pen or pencil? Highlighter? Your name on the front page?

I used to. Just different quotes and things I liked. Highlighted all of them.

4. Do you toss your books on the floor? Into book bags? Or do you treat them tenderly, with respect?

It's not that I intentionally toss them on the floor (or anywhere else for that matter) it just kind of happens.

5. Do you ever lay your book face-down, to save your place?

If I'm coming right back to it, yes.

6. Do you bathe with your books? Hold them with wet hands? Read out in the rain? Anything of that sort?

Nope, never.

7. Are your books lined up on a bookshelf? Or crammed in any which way? Stacked on the floor?

Crammed in any which way. The rest are scattered throughout the house.

8. Do you make a distinction--in regards to book care--between hardcovers and paperbacks?
Not really.

9. Naturally, you love all of your books, but how, exactly? Are your books loved in the battered way of a well-loved teddy bear, or like a cherished photo album or item of clothing that's used, appreciated, but carefully cared for?

Well-loved teddy bears. I read them, then lend them out to my friends/sister/brother to read them, and naturally they get a little worn. Those are my favorite types of books though.

1. Are you careful with the spines? Or do you crack your books open to make them lay flat?
I try to be careful!! But if it is a very thick or stiff book... then it will get some cracks :(

2. Do you use bookmarks? Or do you dog-ear the corners? If you do use bookmarks, do you use those fashionable metal ones? Or paper?
Bookmark!! and I usually get "attached" to my bookmark and use it until it falls apart.

3. Do you write in your books? Ever? If you do, do you make small marks, or write in as much blank space as you can find? Pen or pencil? Highlighter? Your name on the front page?
NO!

4. Do you toss your books on the floor? Into book bags? Or do you treat them tenderly, with respect?

Tenderly!! No tossing or dropping!

5. Do you ever lay your book face-down, to save your place?
Only in emergencies!

6. Do you bathe with your books? Hold them with wet hands? Read out in the rain? Anything of that sort?

Yes bathe, but w/ dry hands and avoid any splashes!

7. Are your books lined up on a bookshelf? Or crammed in any which way? Stacked on the floor?

Stacked on floor, piano, tables, etc. but organized by author or subject.

8. Do you make a distinction--in regards to book care--between hardcovers and paperbacks?
I sometimes take off the dustjacket while I am reading a hardback.

9. Naturally, you love all of your books, but how, exactly? Are your books loved in the battered way of a well-loved teddy bear, or like a cherished photo album or item of clothing that's used, appreciated, but carefully cared for?

Well, I do have to stack my books (some on the floor) but I am careful in the way that I do it so I would say as careful as a person can be if they have to stack them on the floor!!

1. Are you careful with the spines? Or do you crack your books open to make them lay flat?

When buying a new book, I'm usually much more careful with the spine than if it were a used book.

2. Do you use bookmarks? Or do you dog-ear the corners? If you do use bookmarks, do you use those fashionable metal ones? Or paper?

I never dog-ear. I have tons of bookmarks from the bookstore that I use, and I've made my own 'bookmarks' to put into the books that are from a series. I list on cardstock the author and all the books in that series and highlight the ones I have already and use that as a bookmark for each book in that series.

3. Do you write in your books? Ever? If you do, do you make small marks, or write in as much blank space as you can find? Pen or pencil? Highlighter? Your name on the front page?

The only books I write in are my cookbooks. I write the date I tried the recipe, what I changed in the recipe, and if it was a hit or not. I plan on passing my cookbooks down, and I want whoever gets them to read mine like a diary of sorts.

4. Do you toss your books on the floor? Into book bags? Or do you treat them tenderly, with respect?

If I toss them on the floor or put them in my purse, I make sure they're 'safe' and don't get any folded or bent pages.

5. Do you ever lay your book face-down, to save your place?

Rarely. I always have a bookmark handy.

6. Do you bathe with your books? Hold them with wet hands? Read out in the rain? Anything of that sort?

Don't read in the rain, shower, bath or with wet hands. I'm the klutz who would drop the book in the bath water!

7. Are your books lined up on a bookshelf? Or crammed in any which way? Stacked on the floor?

My books are super organized by author! It's just as much an obsession as buying the books!

8. Do you make a distinction--in regards to book care--between hardcovers and paperbacks?

I treat all my books the same.

9. Naturally, you love all of your books, but how, exactly? Are your books loved in the battered way of a well-loved teddy bear, or like a cherished photo album or item of clothing that's used, appreciated, but carefully cared for?

LOL I think I even abuse my old family photos more than my books!

1. Are you careful with the spines? Or do you crack your books open to make them lay flat? It depends on the book.

2. Do you use bookmarks? Or do you dog-ear the corners? If you do use bookmarks, do you use those fashionable metal ones? Or paper? I try not to dog ear, but sometimes I do. I use anything I can for the bookmark.

3. Do you write in your books? Ever? If you do, do you make small marks, or write in as much blank space as you can find? Pen or pencil? Highlighter? Your name on the front page? I do not write in the books, that is what they invented post its for!

4. Do you toss your books on the floor? Into book bags? Or do you treat them tenderly, with respect?
I have a tendency to toss them, unless they are older.

5. Do you ever lay your book face-down, to save your place? yes

6. Do you bathe with your books? Hold them with wet hands? Read out in the rain? Anything of that sort?
If I bath with them, I am careful to have a towel for my hands.

7. Are your books lined up on a bookshelf? Or crammed in any which way? Stacked on the floor?
I have books in 4 rooms in my house. Therefore, they are more than bookshelves can handle.

8. Do you make a distinction--in regards to book care--between hardcovers and paperbacks?
The only hard cover I handle with more care are the older ones passed down and older classics.

9. Naturally, you love all of your books, but how, exactly? Are your books loved in the battered way of a well-loved teddy bear, or like a cherished photo album or item of clothing that's used, appreciated, but carefully cared for? My books are like a well loved teddy bear!

Joseph wrote: "I saw this questionnaire in another group and I thought it might be just right for us to try here:

1. Are you careful with the spines? Or do you crack your books open to make them lay flat?

It depends on the book. If I paid quite alot for it and its not likely I will get another copy I may put it in a baggie to keep the dust off and in a glass bookcase! (very dusty here in CO)

I use bookmarks. All my friends give me bookmarks for my birthday and for my stocking, etc

..."

Hi, I'm Jen and I'm new to the group, I'll start off by filling this out ^,^

1. Are you careful with the spines? Or do you crack your books open to make them lay flat? I can't stand seeing creases in the bindings of books, makes me cringe.

2. Do you use bookmarks? Or do you dog-ear the corners? If you do use bookmarks, do you use those fashionable metal ones? Or paper? I use bookmarks that are laminated that my friends made me.

3. Do you write in your books? Ever? If you do, do you make small marks, or write in as much blank space as you can find? Pen or pencil? Highlighter? Your name on the front page? I write and highlight my textbooks, but with my personal books I use a notebook and post-its to make notes that I need.

4. Do you toss your books on the floor? Into book bags? Or do you treat them tenderly, with respect? I carry a little backpack that I keep a book in along with journals for every day use but all my other books are nicely tucked away on bookshelves.

5. Do you ever lay your book face-down, to save your place? No.

6. Do you bathe with your books? Hold them with wet hands? Read out in the rain? Anything of that sort? I would never ever do that, for one I know with my luck the book will fall into the water and two, like someone said up above, "Water and paper don't mix" lol.

7. Are your books lined up on a bookshelf? Or crammed in any which way? Stacked on the floor? Lined up.

8. Do you make a distinction--in regards to book care--between hardcovers and paperbacks? Every book, whether it's paper or hardcovered, deserves the same respectable treatment.

9. Naturally, you love all of your books, but how, exactly? Are your books loved in the battered way of a well-loved teddy bear, or like a cherished photo album or item of clothing that's used, appreciated, but carefully cared for? I treat it like a cherished photo album. I like to go back and relive the memories that story of that book held for me.

1. Are you careful with the spines? Or do you crack your books open to make them lay flat?
-I try to be careful, but some of them I do.

2. Do you use bookmarks? Or do you dog-ear the corners? If you do use bookmarks, do you use those fashionable metal ones? Or paper?
- I normally use a red ribbon or if I'm reading multiple books I use pieces of paper of sticky notes.

3. Do you write in your books? Ever? If you do, do you make small marks, or write in as much blank space as you can find? Pen or pencil? Highlighter? Your name on the front page?
-No it bugs me.

4. Do you toss your books on the floor? Into book bags? Or do you treat them tenderly, with respect?
- I might drop them or toss them every once and awhile, but I do try to keep them in good shape.

5. Do you ever lay your book face-down, to save your place?
-Yes, but I try not to leave them for long.

6. Do you bathe with your books? Hold them with wet hands? Read out in the rain? Anything of that sort?
-Yes I bathe with my books.

7. Are your books lined up on a bookshelf? Or crammed in any which way? Stacked on the floor?
-Lined up on a bookshelf

8. Do you make a distinction--in regards to book care--between hardcovers and paperbacks?
-No

9. Naturally, you love all of your books, but how, exactly? Are your books loved in the battered way of a well-loved teddy bear, or like a cherished photo album or item of clothing that's used, appreciated, but carefully cared for?
-Most like a well-loved teddy bear a few like a cherished photo album.

1. Are you careful with the spines? Or do you crack your books open to make them lay flat?
-- I am less careful with the spines than I care to admit. :/

2. Do you use bookmarks? Or do you dog-ear the corners? If you do use bookmarks, do you use those fashionable metal ones? Or paper?
-- If it's my own book, I typically dog-ear. But if it's a library book, or a hardcover book, I rip out a piece of notebook paper and use that as a bookmark

3. Do you write in your books? Ever? If you do, do you make small marks, or write in as much blank space as you can find? Pen or pencil? Highlighter? Your name on the front page?
-- I write my last name on the pages

4. Do you toss your books on the floor? Into book bags? Or do you treat them tenderly, with respect?
-- I don't throw books on the floor, but I do carry them around in bags.

5. Do you ever lay your book face-down, to save your place?
-- yes

6. Do you bathe with your books? Hold them with wet hands? Read out in the rain? Anything of that sort?
-- no!

7. Are your books lined up on a bookshelf? Or crammed in any which way? Stacked on the floor?
-- they are arranged so they fit. but i do have a number of homeless books stacked here and there.

8. Do you make a distinction--in regards to book care--between hardcovers and paperbacks?
-- i'm usually more careful with hardcovers

9. Naturally, you love all of your books, but how, exactly? Are your books loved in the battered way of a well-loved teddy bear, or like a cherished photo album or item of clothing that's used, appreciated, but carefully cared for?
-- my books are well used, like an over-hugged teddy bear

1. Are you careful with the spines? Or do you crack your books open to make them lay flat?

I am very careful with my spines. One of my pet peeves about buying used books is how horrible the spines look on many of them. Some of them are so busted up they fall open to a certain page. Sometimes the spine is completely broke. And I REALLY hate when the spine is white with wear from being constantly abused. I try not to kill the spine when I read mine. I don't even like creases, but sometimes they are not able to be avoided. I don't crack mine open and lay them flat.

2. Do you use bookmarks? Or do you dog-ear the corners? If you do use bookmarks, do you use those fashionable metal ones? Or paper?

I use bookmarks made of paper. If I don't have one handy, I'll use something like a post-it.

3. Do you write in your books? Ever? If you do, do you make small marks, or write in as much blank space as you can find? Pen or pencil? Highlighter? Your name on the front page?

The only books I have ever written in were text books in school. I never will write in my books in my collection.

4. Do you toss your books on the floor? Into book bags? Or do you treat them tenderly, with respect?

I treat them as good as I can. Sometimes they will get a little banged up in my purse, but nothing major. I stack them on the floor but I don't literally throw them.

5. Do you ever lay your book face-down, to save your place?

Nope. I use my paper bookmarks.

6. Do you bathe with your books? Hold them with wet hands? Read out in the rain? Anything of that sort?

I used to do this a lot but I found that sometimes it's just not a great idea. I worry about the pages creasing from the steam, but that never happens. But one time somehow the bathtub overflowed and one of my books got pretty darn soaked, even though I was very careful to avoid this. So I don't read in the bathtub much anymore, as much as I love to do so.

7. Are your books lined up on a bookshelf? Or crammed in any which way? Stacked on the floor?

Bookshelves, stacked on the floor, stored in my closet, stored in a shed....everywhere. I try to make sure they are in an area where the elements can't damage them.

8. Do you make a distinction--in regards to book care--between hardcovers and paperbacks?

Not really. I just don't like hardbacks. They are too awkward to read and it's hard to keep from tearing the bookcover.

9. Naturally, you love all of your books, but how, exactly? Are your books loved in the battered way of a well-loved teddy bear, or like a cherished photo album or item of clothing that's used, appreciated, but carefully cared for?

Mixed between a cherished photo album and a piece of clothing that's used. I respect my possessions but some books I just am not as loving with. And those are usually the ones I don't care for as much.

1. Are you careful with the spines? Or do you crack your books open to make them lay flat?

--I'm very careful with the spines. I make my mom promise not to crease the spines of books I lend to her. haha

2. Do you use bookmarks? Or do you dog-ear the corners? If you do use bookmarks, do you use those fashionable metal ones? Or paper?

--I use paper bookmarks so the pages don't get creased or anything or dented.

3. Do you write in your books? Ever? If you do, do you make small marks, or write in as much blank space as you can find? Pen or pencil? Highlighter? Your name on the front page?

--I nearly never write in books. If I need to write something, I do it on a separate sheet or a post it. I like to keep the pages pristine.

4. Do you toss your books on the floor? Into book bags? Or do you treat them tenderly, with respect?

--I tend to treat them tenderly and with respect. When they're in my backpack, I always make sure I carry it gently. I even apologize to my books it I drop them. haha!

5. Do you ever lay your book face-down, to save your place?

--No way! That would crease the spine! I usually keep my book mark close by or stick my pencil between the pages to hold my place.

6. Do you bathe with your books? Hold them with wet hands? Read out in the rain? Anything of that sort?

--No. I only read my books in dry environments. It keeps them in better shape.

7. Are your books lined up on a bookshelf? Or crammed in any which way? Stacked on the floor?

--I like to keep them lined up on a book shelf, but when I run out of space I end up stacking them neatly on the floor.

8. Do you make a distinction--in regards to book care--between hardcovers and paperbacks?

--Not really. The one difference is I can hold a hardcover with one hand (supporting the bottom) as opposed to the two I always use to gently hold the paperbacks open.

9. Naturally, you love all of your books, but how, exactly? Are your books loved in the battered way of a well-loved teddy bear, or like a cherished photo album or item of clothing that's used, appreciated, but carefully cared for?

--Definitely like the cherished photo album or item of clothing that's used, appreciated, but carefully cared for. Most all of the books I bought new (which isn't many) look the same as when I first got them.

1. Are you careful with the spines? Or do you crack your books open to make them lay flat?
I'm careful with them.:)

2. Do you use bookmarks? Or do you dog-ear the corners? If you do use bookmarks, do you use those fashionable metal ones? Or paper?
I use bookmarks, I dont want to see the pages of my books being fold. I collect different types of bookmarks,so I use depending on my mood.

3. Do you write in your books? Ever? If you do, do you make small marks, or write in as much blank space as you can find? Pen or pencil? Highlighter? Your name on the front page?
I dont write on my books, if ever there's a line I like, I copy it manually in my quote notebook.

4. Do you toss your books on the floor? Into book bags? Or do you treat them tenderly, with respect?
I don't want my books to be thrown, I hate it when I drop it accidentally.

5. Do you ever lay your book face-down, to save your place?
I don't want to damage the spine of my books.

6. Do you bathe with your books? Hold them with wet hands? Read out in the rain? Anything of that sort?
No!!!
7. Are your books lined up on a bookshelf? Or crammed in any which way? Stacked on the floor?
I put them in a chair.:)

8. Do you make a distinction--in regards to book care--between hardcovers and paperbacks?

yip.

9. Naturally, you love all of your books, but how, exactly? Are your books loved in the battered way of a well-loved teddy bear, or like a cherished photo album or item of clothing that's used, appreciated, but carefully cared for?
I love them as if they are my world.:)

1. Are you careful with the spines? Or do you crack your books open to make them lay flat?

I usually try to be careful with the spines, but by the time I've finished a book the spine is usually cracked.

2. Do you use bookmarks? Or do you dog-ear the corners? If you do use bookmarks, do you use those fashionable metal ones? Or paper?

I use bookmarks nearly all the time. Usually I use a metal bookmark, a handmade one. I will also use paper bookmarks if I'm not using my metal bookmark. Very occasionally I will use a tear a piece of paper to use as a bookmark and if I'm somewhere where I don't have a bookmark or paper I will dog-ear the pages, although I feel bad about it.

3. Do you write in your books? Ever? If you do, do you make small marks, or write in as much blank space as you can find? Pen or pencil? Highlighter? Your name on the front page?

I never write anything in my books unless it's a book we have to study at school, just in case it gets lost at school.

4. Do you toss your books on the floor? Into book bags? Or do you treat them tenderly, with respect?

I always try to be careful with my novels. If i see someone throw a book onto the floor I always think that it's "hurting the book's feelings."

5. Do you ever lay your book face-down, to save your place?

Sometimes, usually if I don't have a bookmark with me.

6. Do you bathe with your books? Hold them with wet hands? Read out in the rain? Anything of that sort?

Nope. I'm too worried about dropping it in the bathtub!

7. Are your books lined up on a bookshelf? Or crammed in any which way? Stacked on the floor?

Right now I have too many books in my house. I try to fit them into bookshelves, but I have many stacked on the floor in neat little piles in my bedroom!.

8. Do you make a distinction--in regards to book care--between hardcovers and paperbacks?

I'm usually more careful with the spines of paperbacks as they can be damaged more easily than hardbacks.

9. Naturally, you love all of your books, but how, exactly? Are your books loved in the battered way of a well-loved teddy bear, or like a cherished photo album or item of clothing that's used, appreciated, but carefully cared for?

I try to keep most of my books clean and not battered, but many of my most-loved books (Harry Potter) books are battered and dog-eared around the edges, but I love them. Probably my most loved books are my Harry Potters'!

1. Are you careful with the spines? Or do you crack your books open to make them lay flat?

Not at all, really. The smaller sized books don't tend to crack anyway, but I just read The Girl Who Played With Fire in Mass Market size and it cracked like crazy because it's over 700 pages.

2. Do you use bookmarks? Or do you dog-ear the corners? If you do use bookmarks, do you use those fashionable metal ones? Or paper?

I typically use the receipts that they stuff in the book when I buy them. If I buy more than one book and only have one receipt, I put the receipt in the book that I'm most excited about to read, and then I have a bookmark from the store I bought it from for the remaining books. And the bookmarks stay in the book once I finish them. I used to use book "thongs" but they got stuck on a lot of things and broke too often. And anyone that knows me knows that if you dog ear my book, you are buying me another copy. I can't stand that!

3. Do you write in your books? Ever? If you do, do you make small marks, or write in as much blank space as you can find? Pen or pencil? Highlighter? Your name on the front page?

I do not write in ANY book. When I was in college, I didn't even write in my workbooks. I went to the copy machine and made copies. People always looked at me funny, but I just can't bring myself to write in a book, I feel like it's like....damaging it's soul.

4. Do you toss your books on the floor? Into book bags? Or do you treat them tenderly, with respect?

Definitely with respect. Books are like babies.

5. Do you ever lay your book face-down, to save your place?

Only when I'm feeding my tot and I have to put the book down to burp him and I can't find my bookmark. I try not to tho, because sometimes the pages get all wonky and they crease.

6. Do you bathe with your books? Hold them with wet hands? Read out in the rain? Anything of that sort?

I'll read in the tub, but I've always got a dry towel on the edge of the tub in case my hands get wet. I have yet to drop one in the tub, but I'm sure now that' I've said that...

7. Are your books lined up on a bookshelf? Or crammed in any which way? Stacked on the floor?

Organized and displayed beautifully around my house on bookshelves :D

8. Do you make a distinction--in regards to book care--between hardcovers and paperbacks?

Yes. Book Jackets remain on the shelves until I read the book and put it back when I finish it. If I loan a hardcover book out, they don't get the book jacket. If I loan ANY book out, I have a post it note on the inside that tells them I will hunt them down and kick them if they bring my book back in any condition other than awesome.

9. Naturally, you love all of your books, but how, exactly? Are your books loved in the battered way of a well-loved teddy bear, or like a cherished photo album or item of clothing that's used, appreciated, but carefully cared for?

My book collection is my sense of pride. I have no family or friends that enjoy reading and collecting books like myself (although my little sister is catching on....her collection of Warrior Cats is growing pretty quickly). I get the best satisfaction when someone comes to my house to visit, and they say, "Wow, You have so many books! Have you read them all?" and I can proudly tell them "Yes, I've read them all except for a few!" And I get that look from them like, "wow, you really have a passion for something". And sometimes I convert them into book addicts. Then they move and I never hear from them again T_T

1. Are you careful with the spines? Or do you crack your books open to make them lay flat?
If it's a hardcover I tend to not be as gentle, but with paperbacks, I try my best to not spread as wide as it'll go to make it easier for me to read.

2. Do you use bookmarks? Or do you dog-ear the corners? If you do use bookmarks, do you use those fashionable metal ones? Or paper?
If I don't own the books (if they're from school) I dog-ear them, library books or my own, I use a normal paper or glossy papered bookmarks with pretty design or anime characters on them.

3. Do you write in your books? Ever? If you do, do you make small marks, or write in as much blank space as you can find? Pen or pencil? Highlighter? Your name on the front page?
(Books) NO! The only exception would be, This Is Not a Book It begs you to write, cut and prod it, so I do.
For the first few months of me buying my first books I did, then now I've learned from that mistake.

4. Do you toss your books on the floor? Into book bags? Or do you treat them tenderly, with respect?
I lay them gently on to the floor or table if I'm about to sleep, If I get back from school, I toss it gently onto my bed. =)

5. Do you ever lay your book face-down, to save your place?
If I really need to go to the toilet, then yes.

6. Do you bathe with your books? Hold them with wet hands? Read out in the rain? Anything of that sort?
.... I've seen what that does to my art book... never.

7. Are your books lined up on a bookshelf? Or crammed in any which way? Stacked on the floor?
Lined by my manner of order and books on top of those to keep dust from cramming on top of the pages; If I've just bought brand new books I stack them on the ground in order of what I want to read first.

8. Do you make a distinction--in regards to book care--between hardcovers and paperbacks?
Yes,
Paperbacks I don't ever put in my bag after what happened to my poor Brisingr, If I'm putting back a book in my shelf I make sure that the sides of the cover are all flat and not creased.

9. Naturally, you love all of your books, but how, exactly? Are your books loved in the battered way of a well-loved teddy bear, or like a cherished photo album or item of clothing that's used, appreciated, but carefully cared for?
Wow, none of those description, my books and instruments are the only things I cherish (besides my laptop); Clothes, I don't make a distinction same for anything else.

1. Are you careful with the spines? Or do you crack your books open to make them lay flat?
Definitely. My first set of Harry Potter books were hardcover and ended up separating from the spine because I read them so much. I ended up buying a new set :)

2. Do you use bookmarks? Or do you dog-ear the corners? If you do use bookmarks, do you use those fashionable metal ones? Or paper?
Sometimes I dog ear, but I try not to. Usually I try to make a mental note of where I left off (which is why I try to read in chapter intervals- to make it easier). If I use a bookmark, its normally the receipt from the book's purchase.

3. Do you write in your books? Ever? If you do, do you make small marks, or write in as much blank space as you can find? Pen or pencil? Highlighter? Your name on the front page?
Absolutely not. The most i'll do is put a post-it on certain pages where I would like to mark. My only exception is if the book is for school. That's when I highlight and make notes in the margins like crazy.

4. Do you toss your books on the floor? Into book bags? Or do you treat them tenderly, with respect?
I keep them on my bookshelf or lay them on my table if i'm currently reading. If i'm traveling, I place my book in my bag spine first, to prevent bending corners of pages =P

5. Do you ever lay your book face-down, to save your place?
Yes, all the time.

6. Do you bathe with your books? Hold them with wet hands? Read out in the rain? Anything of that sort?
Not at all.

7. Are your books lined up on a bookshelf? Or crammed in any which way? Stacked on the floor?
Initially they were lined up on a book shelf. And they still are. However, with my excessive book splurging, some are piled on the shelf wherever I could find space.

8. Do you make a distinction--in regards to book care--between hardcovers and paperbacks?
Not necessarily. Though i'm careful with paperbacks in terms of bending, and i'm careful with hardcovers in terms of the fact that hardcovers without the sleeve get stained easily.

9. Naturally, you love all of your books, but how, exactly? Are your books loved in the battered way of a well-loved teddy bear, or like a cherished photo album or item of clothing that's used, appreciated, but carefully cared for?
I love my books. A lot. So much that it hurts me to let people borrow them. Horrible, I know.

1. Are you careful with the spines? Or do you crack your books open to make them lay flat?
I'm really careful with the spines of my books but if I have an old one that I've read a million times, sometimes I can't help but crack the spine.

2. Do you use bookmarks? Or do you dog-ear the corners? If you do use bookmarks, do you use those fashionable metal ones? Or paper?
I usually dog-ear my pages because there normally isn't a bookmark conveniently sitting around somewhere. But occasionally I'll use of my few bookmarks (that tend to disappear. I swear I have an bookmark stealing/hiding elf in my house) or a scrap of paper to mark my place.

3. Do you write in your books? Ever? If you do, do you make small marks, or write in as much blank space as you can find? Pen or pencil? Highlighter? Your name on the front page?
I used to HATE writing in my books but then when I learned its OKAY to write in them for school or something, I started doing it all the time. I underline quotes that I live or make little comments on the side. I always use pencil so I can erase it if need be. In addition to a fancy little sticker that has my name on it, I've been writing my name in my books to keep them from being stolen.

4. Do you toss your books on the floor? Into book bags? Or do you treat them tenderly, with respect?
I try not to toss my books on the floor but sometimes I do. Mostly I carefully but them back in there rightful place on my bookshelf like a parent tucking their child into bed.

5. Do you ever lay your book face-down, to save your place?
Guilty...

6. Do you bathe with your books? Hold them with wet hands? Read out in the rain? Anything of that sort?
After The Once and Future King took a tragic nosedive into my dog's water bowl, I keep books away from water of any kind. Unless I'm at the beach or reading poolside. Can't really help that...

7. Are your books lined up on a bookshelf? Or crammed in any which way? Stacked on the floor?
My books are neatly lined up on three bookshelves but I'm quickly running out of room so some are stacked on the floor..but that doesn't mean I love them any less.

8. Do you make a distinction--in regards to book care--between hardcovers and paperbacks?
Besides separating them on the bookshelves, no not really.

9. Naturally, you love all of your books, but how, exactly? Are your books loved in the battered way of a well-loved teddy bear, or like a cherished photo album or item of clothing that's used, appreciated, but carefully cared for?
Ofcourse I love all my books! Most are loved in a used, appreciated but well cared for way. There are a few that fall under the battered way of an old teddy bear though. Those are my comfort books and there is no limit to how many times I will read them or how far they will venture out of the safety of my minilibrary in my room.

1. Are you careful with the spines? Or do you crack your books open to make them lay flat?
I am careful with my spines. Unless I buy a used book with the spine already cracked, I am as careful as I can be.

2. Do you use bookmarks? Or do you dog-ear the corners? If you do use bookmarks, do you use those fashionable metal ones? Or paper?
I use paper bookmarks, though I tend to lose them so usually scraps, receipts, or post-its.

3. Do you write in your books? Ever? If you do, do you make small marks, or write in as much blank space as you can find? Pen or pencil? Highlighter? Your name on the front page?
I will NOT EVER write or mark in my book. I hate getting textbooks from my school that are written in. It just drives me crazy! My teacher wanted us to write notes in our MLA Handbook (brand new!) and I flat-out refused. I instead used post-its. I live for post-its.

4. Do you toss your books on the floor? Into book bags? Or do you treat them tenderly, with respect?
It depends, a brand new book I will treat with tender respect and care, but a flea market buy will often end up in the bottom of my backpack, on the floor of my car, between couch cusions. I don't work about messing up a book that's aleady messed up.

5. Do you ever lay your book face-down, to save your place?
Sometimes I do this without thinking about it or while I try to find a bookmark, but I try not to.

6. Do you bathe with your books? Hold them with wet hands? Read out in the rain? Anything of that sort?
Never. Although I do, eat while I read, which is just asking for disaster.

7. Are your books lined up on a bookshelf? Or crammed in any which way? Stacked on the floor?
My books used to be put on shelves, neatly organized by author last name. But now I have down graded on space, and don't have room so they are piled high filling up my bookshelf,the floor in front of it and in boxes. That's why I bought a Nook. Space saver.

8. Do you make a distinction--in regards to book care--between hardcovers and paperbacks?
I am very picky about hardcovers! They require more care because they are more expensive and look nicer. I don't buy many so when I get one, I usually only read it at home and don't take it anywhere. Also, they are usually heavier, so it's easier on me too in the long run.

9. Naturally, you love all of your books, but how, exactly? Are your books loved in the battered way of a well-loved teddy bear, or like a cherished photo album or item of clothing that's used, appreciated, but carefully cared for?
My books are cared for in a way I can't quite describe. I used to have nightmares of my house catching on fire, and I would be trying to throw books out of the window to save them and I would die in the fire trying because I had too many. Even though I have a Nook, I like to go to my bookshelf sometimes and just...feel them, open them, smell them. Just flip the pages and feel their weight in my hands. I don't know what you would call that, but my boyfriend says its weird, but what does he know. He doesn't like to read. ;D

1. Are you careful with the spines? Or do you crack your books open to make them lay flat?

Im very careful with the spines of my book i dont like them to crease or anything because i like them to be presentable when i put them back on the shelf, like a new book library.Im kind of OCD when it comes to my books, i barely even let my lil sister read my books lol (I hate Hard back books)

2. Do you use bookmarks? Or do you dog-ear the corners? If you do use bookmarks, do you use those fashionable metal ones?
I dont really care what kind of bookmark i have, becuase its a bookmark lol

3. Do you write in your books? Ever? If you do, do you make small marks, or write in as much blank space as you can find? Pen or pencil? Highlighter?

NEVER!!! Thats a big No No for me

4. Do you toss your books on the floor? Into book bags? Or do you treat them tenderly, with respect?

I treat my books with respect, they are like Art to me.

5. Do you ever lay your book face-down, to save your place?

Sometimes i do like when i have to go to the bathroom real quick but i never leave it like that.

6. Do you bathe with your books? Hold them with wet hands? Read out in the rain? Anything of that sort?

Why would you bathe with a book? ummmm next question....

7. Are your books lined up on a bookshelf? Or crammed in any which way? Stacked on the floor?

Lol my books used to be stacked up on the floor because i had no room to put them anywhere else but i recently got a book shelf and filled up mostly all 5 shelves and i plan on getting another :)

8. Do you make a distinction--in regards to book care--between hardcovers and paperbacks?
I love paperback!! and i take them everywhere i go :)

9. Naturally, you love all of your books, but how, exactly? Are your books loved in the battered way of a well-loved teddy bear, or like a cherished photo album or item of clothing that's used, appreciated, but carefully cared for?

My books are like my babies, i really care for them i dont like anyone touching my books, or reading them.I wouldnt trade or sale any of my books for the world

1. Crack a spine? Eek, no! That's just asking for pages to loosen from the binding.

2. My mom used to dog-ear corners after seeing pages missing corners, I just can't do it. My bookmark of choice is an index card, then I can make notes on it about interesting passages and quotes.

3. I've noted items that should have been caught by a proofreader in a few books (I love doing it with my Nook), but this is largely a no. Unless it's a nonfiction book on a subject I'm studying like creativity or writing, then the highlighter comes out. Also as a student I developed the habit of making notes on a notepad while reading for discussions and such when I didn't want to mark in the book.

4. I have bookshelves crammed with books, stacks of books on the floor, and piled on my study table. I don't throw books as a general rule, they go into purses, messager bags, or whatever I'm carrying that day.

5. Face-down ::shudder:: we're back to the cracked spine thing again... no, please, no.

6. Bathing and books... I use clear contact (removable) paper to cover all my paperbacks just so I don't accidently set drink on them and leave a ring. (The contact paper cover also helps prevent sweaty hands from discoloring covers and softening their edges.) Do you really think I'm going to take a bath and read after that? No, just no.

7. See number 4, please.

8. Difference in care of hardcovers and paperbacks, not really. Some of over-sized books, I'll tend to read with them laying on a table but that's a comfort thing, they're heavy!

9. I take care of my books, always have. I have some paperbacks that are 20 years old and frequently read. I love re-reading so I take care of my friends until they'll be around for awhile.

fyi--I rarely lend my books out and it's only after I've checked out how the person takes care of their books.

1. Are you careful with the spines? Or do you crack your books open to make them lay flat? I'm pretty careful with the spines unless I bought it second hand and the spine is already cracked.

2. Do you use bookmarks? Or do you dog-ear the corners? If you do use bookmarks, do you use those fashionable metal ones? Or paper? Bookmarks. I really dislike dogearring books. I use whatever I find - often just pieces of junk mail. I have a few bookmarks but I usually just grab whatever is at hand.

3. Do you write in your books? Ever? If you do, do you make small marks, or write in as much blank space as you can find? Pen or pencil? Highlighter? Your name on the front page? Unless it's a book for school where you're allowed to bring the book in for the exam with little notes on it I don't like to write in books. I never highlight books. When I write on them it's only even in pencil.

4. Do you toss your books on the floor? Into book bags? Or do you treat them tenderly, with respect? I try to treat them well. Not in book bags but I don't throw them. Some get quite well used - I always have one in my bag whenever I leave the house.

5. Do you ever lay your book face-down, to save your place? No. But sometimes I use a TV controller to save my place.

6. Do you bathe with your books? Hold them with wet hands? Read out in the rain? Anything of that sort? No. I wouldn't want the pages to get water damaged. When my house got flooded and my books were ruined - it was a very sad day. I was more upset over the damaged books than anything else that got ruined.

7. Are your books lined up on a bookshelf? Or crammed in any which way? Stacked on the floor? Bookshelves. And stacked on the floor. Also in plastic storage containers that I bought from a hardware store. That way they're protected from dust and whatnot and the boxes are stackable.

8. Do you make a distinction--in regards to book care--between hardcovers and paperbacks? Usually paperback. But usually that's because they're cheaper and more portable.

9. Naturally, you love all of your books, but how, exactly? Are your books loved in the battered way of a well-loved teddy bear, or like a cherished photo album or item of clothing that's used, appreciated, but carefully cared for? Some are very battered. Either because they're second hand or because I've lent them to everyone I know. My harry potter books are incredibly damaged. I prefer to think of them as loved.

1. Are you careful with the spines? Or do you crack your books open to make them lay flat?

It depends on the book, usually I'm careful, but if it's a rundown second hand copy, I don't care as much as with a pristine new tradepaperback or a very old book.

2. Do you use bookmarks? Or do you dog-ear the corners? If you do use bookmarks, do you use those fashionable metal ones? Or paper?

I use bookmarks, I really like the magnetic ones you clip on the page - it's harder for my son to remove - but I also use regular cardboard marks, photos, scraps of paper etc.

3. Do you write in your books? Ever? If you do, do you make small marks, or write in as much blank space as you can find? Pen or pencil? Highlighter? Your name on the front page?

I either put in a bookplate og write my name in all my books. I don't want to discuss with people that borrow books from me, whether it's really my book ever again.
I'll sometimes write pencil notes in books for bookclub or books that I'm reviewing.

4. Do you toss your books on the floor? Into book bags? Or do you treat them tenderly, with respect?

Depends on the book

5. Do you ever lay your book face-down, to save your place?

No

6. Do you bathe with your books? Hold them with wet hands? Read out in the rain? Anything of that sort?

I once left a book on our garden table during a rain storm, but it really wasn't on purpose.
I've been known to read books in the tub - before we had kids.

7. Are your books lined up on a bookshelf? Or crammed in any which way? Stacked on the floor?

Again depends on the book. I ran out of shelf space ages ago, so some are stashed behind the other books, some are lying on top of the other books and others again are stacked on the floor.

8. Do you make a distinction--in regards to book care--between hardcovers and paperbacks?

More in terms of "rare signed book I love" gets better treatment than 2-3 star novels. If a book is really beautiful, by my favourite author, was a present from someone special OR is out of print and hard to come by, it also earns special treatment and a place on a high shelf.

9. Naturally, you love all of your books, but how, exactly? Are your books loved in the battered way of a well-loved teddy bear, or like a cherished photo album or item of clothing that's used, appreciated, but carefully cared for?

That depends, I have a few titles, where I have a reading copy and a pristine copy.
Usually it's fine that you can see, that the book has been read - but I try to keep them in nice shape.

1. Are you careful with the spines? Or do you crack your books open to make them lay flat?
I am careful not to crack open the books. I open it till the bind allows me to.

2. Do you use bookmarks? Or do you dog-ear the corners? If you do use bookmarks, do you use those fashionable metal ones? Or paper?
I use paper bookmarks that come along with the book whenever I buy online.

3. Do you write in your books? Ever? If you do, do you make small marks, or write in as much blank space as you can find? Pen or pencil? Highlighter? Your name on the front page?
No, I never write anything on my books. If I want to note down something, I write it down on a separate journal or on my PC.

4. Do you toss your books on the floor? Into book bags? Or do you treat them tenderly, with respect?
I never toss a book. I try to treat them as gently as possible.

5. Do you ever lay your book face-down, to save your place?
Sometimes I do, when I couldn’t find where I left the bookmark.

6. Do you bathe with your books? Hold them with wet hands? Read out in the rain? Anything of that sort?
No. I make sure none of my books expose to water.

7. Are your books lined up on a bookshelf? Or crammed in any which way? Stacked on the floor?
As currently I am in a temporary residence, I keep my books in a trolley. When it gets overflowed, I takeup the read books to my home and keep in the bookshelf that I maintain.

8. Do you make a distinction--in regards to book care—between hardcovers and paperbacks?
No I don’t. I treat all the books same way.

9. Naturally, you love all of your books, but how, exactly? Are your books loved in the battered way of a well-loved teddy bear, or like a cherished photo album or item of clothing that's used, appreciated, but carefully cared for?
I love my books very much and take care nothing would damage them. If my roommates take up my book for reading, I would make sure that they will not damage it and if they did they would never touch my books again. :)

1. Are you careful with the spines? Or do you crack your books open to make them lay flat?
I keep the spines in perfect condition, no creases.

2. Do you use bookmarks? Or do you dog-ear the corners? If you do use bookmarks, do you use those fashionable metal ones? Or paper?
I usually just tear a corner from a magazine or newspaper.

3. Do you write in your books? Ever? If you do, do you make small marks, or write in as much blank space as you can find? Pen or pencil? Highlighter? Your name on the front page?
No. Never.

4. Do you toss your books on the floor? Into book bags? Or do you treat them tenderly, with respect?
Eh, I usually set them down easily.

5. Do you ever lay your book face-down, to save your place?
Yeah.

6. Do you bathe with your books? Hold them with wet hands? Read out in the rain? Anything of that sort?
No...

7. Are your books lined up on a bookshelf? Or crammed in any which way? Stacked on the floor?
I organize them on a bookshelf but not obsessively or anything. I tend to organize by author, and all of my adult books are on one shelf, but that's it.

8. Do you make a distinction--in regards to book care--between hardcovers and paperbacks?
Paperbacks tend to get better care because they crease and bend easier.

9. Naturally, you love all of your books, but how, exactly? Are your books loved in the battered way of a well-loved teddy bear, or like a cherished photo album or item of clothing that's used, appreciated, but carefully cared for?
I try to keep them in the best possible condition. I simply like it better that way.

1. Are you careful with the spines? Or do you crack your books open to make them lay flat?
I am always careful with my books and never crack their backs or lay them flat.

2. Do you use bookmarks? Or do you dog-ear the corners? If you do use bookmarks, do you use those fashionable metal ones?
I always use a bookmark.
3. Do you write in your books? Ever? If you do, do you make small marks, or write in as much blank space as you can find? Pen or pencil? Highlighter?
NO

4. Do you toss your books on the floor? Into book bags? Or do you treat them tenderly, with respect?
I treat them like the friends they are.

5. Do you ever lay your book face-down, to save your place?
No


6. Do you bathe with your books? Hold them with wet hands? Read out in the rain? Anything of that sort?
I shower alone and try to stay out of the rain.

7. Are your books lined up on a bookshelf? Or crammed in any which way? Stacked on the floor?
My books are lined up on bookshelves.

8. Do you make a distinction--in regards to book care--between hardcovers and paperbacks?
No
9. Naturally, you love all of your books, but how, exactly? Are your books loved in the battered way of a well-loved teddy bear, or like a cherished photo album or item of clothing that's used, appreciated, but carefully cared for?
My books are loved and taken care of like friends.

I saw this questionnaire in another group and I thought it might be just right for us to try here:

1. Are you careful with the spines? Or do you crack your books open to make them lay flat? careful with spines

2. Do you use bookmarks? Or do you dog-ear the corners? If you do use bookmarks, do you use those fashionable metal ones? Or paper? I prefer bookmarks, but the flatter the better. (someone once gave me one of those metal stick kinds with a charm on the top. I tried to use it, but it wasn't flat enough to protect the book and it would fall out easily.)

3. Do you write in your books? Ever? If you do, do you make small marks, or write in as much blank space as you can find? Pen or pencil? Highlighter? Your name on the front page?
I highlight and write notes in pen in my nonfiction books, but not my fiction ones. I have been known to copy quotes from fiction, but not in the books.

4. Do you toss your books on the floor? Into book bags? Or do you treat them tenderly, with respect? It depends on the book and where I am.

5. Do you ever lay your book face-down, to save your place? I try not to.

6. Do you bathe with your books? Hold them with wet hands? Read out in the rain? Anything of that sort? No. Never.

7. Are your books lined up on a bookshelf? Or crammed in any which way? Stacked on the floor? All three.

8. Do you make a distinction--in regards to book care--between hardcovers and paperbacks? Only between fiction and nonfiction. I take care of them all, but write in nonfiction for reference.

9. Naturally, you love all of your books, but how, exactly? Are your books loved in the battered way of a well-loved teddy bear, or like a cherished photo album or item of clothing that's used, appreciated, but carefully cared for?

Generally, used, appreciated, and cared for.

1. Are you careful with the spines? Or do you crack your books open to make them lay flat?

Not careful at all -- first thing I do is break the spine, and I usually fold the front cover back as I'm reading to keep it broken the whole way through the book. I'm just more comfortable reading that way, and I'm not one for "precious" things -- I guess I handle everything pretty roughly. We have antiques and art that the kids get into and mess around with -- I'm more interested in being relaxed and enjoying my things; I don't think I'd be as happy if I were more concerned with my things.



2. Do you use bookmarks? Or do you dog-ear the corners? If you do use bookmarks, do you use those fashionable metal ones? Or paper?

I dog ear -- no surprise, I'm sure! If I haven't removed the dust jacket from a hardback, I'll usually use the cover to mark my spot.



3. Do you write in your books? Ever? If you do, do you make small marks, or write in as much blank space as you can find? Pen or pencil? Highlighter? Your name on the front page?

Oddly enough, I don't write in my books.



4. Do you toss your books on the floor? Into book bags? Or do you treat them tenderly, with respect?

I "place" more than "toss", but yeah, I've got books in the car, on the floor, in my bag, etc, etc, etc.




5. Do you ever lay your book face-down, to save your place?

Yep, all the time -- I usually have a whole stack lying around like that.




6. Do you bathe with your books? Hold them with wet hands? Read out in the rain? Anything of that sort?

Again, yes -- I always read in the bath. And I do have a number of books that have fallen in or gotten sloshed while on the side of the tub. It happens. I do prefer not to handle them with wet hands, but that's more of a sensory issue than to protect the book.




7. Are your books lined up on a bookshelf? Or crammed in any which way? Stacked on the floor?

Crammed in any way they'll fit. Stacked on tables and chairs, stacked on the floor by my bed -- anywhere there's a spot. I have started boxing the ones I've finished so that I can put them in storage until I buy another house -- just not enough room for bookcases where I'm at now.




8. Do you make a distinction--in regards to book care--between hardcovers and paperbacks?

I don't think so. I might try to be a bit more careful with hardbacks, but not overly so.




9. Naturally, you love all of your books, but how, exactly? Are your books loved in the battered way of a well-loved teddy bear, or like a cherished photo album or item of clothing that's used, appreciated, but carefully cared for?

Definitely the battered teddy bear kind of love! And I really do love my books, I promise! I just love them a bit differently, I guess!