In consideration of used books

The month of October is "Used Books Month", a great idea, and October 4th is "Used Book Day". The anniversary was registered by the National Federation of Used Books and they gave great consideration to the date. If you break down the kanji character that is used in "used books", it becomes "ten" and "mouth" = "field", which has been likened to 4 books! Also, "10 (to)" and "4 (shi)" = 書 "toshi", which is another word for book.

In this day and age when sustainability is more important than ever, used books are more appealing than ever. I know reading online is considered more ecologically friendly, but it is not completely ecologically friendly. Think of the electricity and power used, which is increasing exponentially daily due to the amount AI consumes. Moreover, I just can't read books online, it messes with my eyes. I much prefer holding a book in my hand. Moreover, the smell of old books is practically medicinal.

You will find around this time of year there are used book markets in many locations around Japan. Visiting an used book market is like going on a treasure hunt. You never know what gem you might find. There are also second hand bookstore districts. In Tokyo, Jimbocho is the famous used-bookstore district. It caters to a variety of artistic interests. If you've never been, how about paying it a visit this used book month?