Why “bibliophilism” is a great word
BIBLIOPHILISM — [Noun] A profound affection for books, particularly as physical artifacts to be collected and aesthetically appreciated. Formed within English from the combining form biblio- (from Greek βιβλίον (biblíon), "book") and the suffix -philism (from Greek φίλος (phílos), "loving, dear"). Unlike "bibliomania," which implies a compulsive, acquisitive frenzy for rarity over content, or "literacy," which denotes a functional skill, bibliophilism is a quieter, more contemplative devotion. It is the scent of foxed paper and old leather in a still room, the deliberate heft of a well-bound folio in the hand, and the patient alignment of spines upon a shelf—a private faith in the vessel, regardless of the voyage.