Tour The Largest Home Library on Reddit - Complete Loeb Classical Library and More

[@harvardupress]

We Loeb to see it.

[@timothykenny]

Thank you for everything you do! Would be great to visit some time for a tour!

[@timothykenny]

From the old pinned comment: **💡Guide for watching and 🔖Timestamps for Last 2 Hours Below: ** **📝The owner of the library featured in this video, Greg of Reddit, is in the comments section as @ClassicalLibraryGuy** 💡Guide for watching: The first hour focuses on a high level overview of Greg's library, plus a focus on some of his most important book sets like the Complete (550+ volume) Loeb Classical Library, the Complete I Tatti Renaissance Library and the Complete Dumbarton Oak Medieval Library. At 1h10m we start the shelf by shelf tour, and you can skip around section by section based on subject matter. The shelf by shelf tour concludes around 7h30m and the last couple hours contain a high level conversation on how Greg uses his library, how he is planning to grow it in the future, and much more. The details on the book giveaway are at the very end of the video. The second part of this bookshelf tour/interview will be released in about a week, so make sure to like and subscribe with notifications turned on to get that videos when it's released. The third part is a live Zoom AMA with Greg which you can attend using the link above, and the recording of that AMA will be uploaded to this channel in about 2 weeks. If you can't attend live, just leave a comment below with your question and I will ask it to Greg during the Zoom call. 🔖Timestamps (continued from video description for last ~2h of video): *** Start of High Level Conversation on Greg's Library, How He Uses It, Future Plans, etc *** 7:34:50 Interesting numbers on the Loeb collection 7:36:40 Interesting numbers on the I Tatti and Dumbarton collections 7:36:58 More interesting numbers on Greg's library *Start of Loeb Focused Section* 7:38:30 Issues with alphabetizing the Loebs 7:40:00 The motivational benefits of having a large library *Start of Focus on Future Plans, How He Uses Library, etc* 7:41:25 Future plans for the library 7:42:50 Airbnb idea 7:44:30 Library and homeowners insurance, wildfire danger 7:45:14 His most expensive book 7:53:30 Growing at a bookshelf a year 8:00:37 What is Greg's daily routine with his library? 8:02:45 Does a large library ever trigger ADD? (too many options) 8:03:30 Husband and Wife chair set in library 8:11:10 How many books does he have in his library? (Comparison to Umberto Ecco) 8:20:45 How should visitors behave when visiting his library? What are the rules? 8:26:00 How his childhood informed how he shelves 8:38:15 Discussion of book storage best practices 8:54:15 How does he balance being a heavy user of Reddit and having a large library and spending a lot of time reading physical books? 9:08:00 What is gained by having a large library (esp for people who are "digital native")? 9:14:24 Book Giveaway details - All books shown 9:15:15 Books Giveaway -- Books shown and described

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

Adding some class to the classics!

[@timothykenny]

Note to new comment readers: I need to add a comment with just a period “.” as a final comment in some comment threads to clear the thread from my comments inbox. Please ignore, it’s just a work around to make it possible for me to clear old comments from my comments inbox.

[@CaldonianBoar]

Just when you think literature's en route to collapsing into the soil, KZbin finds me an old man with all the books and a young man who absolutely understands why that's awesome.

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

Wait a minute. “Old man?” You better git off mah lawn!

[@timothykenny]

When the student is ready the teacher appears.

[@videomelanie]

@@ClassicalLibraryGuy That was my thought too! hahaha I'm the same age as the library owner. Caldonian must be a teenager.

[@timothykenny]

For those interested, @CaldonianBoar 's username is (I think) a reference to this classical story, from Wikipedia: The Calydonian boar hunt is one of the great heroic adventures in Greek legend.[2] It occurred in the generation prior to that of the Trojan War, and stands alongside the other great heroic adventure of that generation, the voyage of the Argonauts, which preceded it.[3] The purpose of the hunt was to kill the Calydonian boar (also called the Aetolian boar),[4] which had been sent by Artemis to ravage the region of Calydon in Aetolia, because its king Oeneus had failed to honour her in his rites to the gods. The hunters, led by the hero Meleager, included many of the foremost heroes of Greece. In most accounts it is also concluded that a great heroine, Atalanta, won its hide by first wounding it with an arrow. This outraged many of the men, leading to a tragic dispute. en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Calydonian_boar_hunt

[@Kidgangforever]

Dudes not that old

[@vanhouten64]

I think it's underrated how much a wall of books affects the coziness of a room. This house/library looks like a wonderful place to spend time.

[@timothykenny]

Agreed, thank you for watching! Hoping to do an in person tour at some point as well!

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

If people bring food and good conversation, we just have ourselves a little sit-in.

[@bthome123]

Also underrated is the weight of these shelves. My question is whether he has had a structural engineer/inspector review this setup and whether he has had his house reinforced.

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

@@bthome123 Actually, we're on a slab foundation, so there's plenty of strength to spare. I don't think I'd want to put a library on a second story, however, without having someone take a look at things.

[@bthome123]

@@ClassicalLibraryGuy thanks so much for answering my questions. I left a couple and you responded to both. I do appreciate you.

[@asdisskagen6487]

I'm so happy to find someone who makes my book hoarding look amateurish. 😂😂😂 Thoroughly enjoyed the tour and I'm thrilled to have found your channel!

[@timothykenny]

Thank you for watching and bringing your enthusiasm for books! Would be great to hear more about your library and anything in particular you noticed about Greg’s library!

[@asdisskagen6487]

@@timothykenny My biggest takeaway from Greg's library (I'm still working my way through your interview with him) is that people's library collections are an extension of who they are as individuals; our books are a reflection of our interests, skills, and dreams. As we age, our books can also become a map of our lived experiences and travels. I had to purge beloved collections several times throughout my life due to military service. I have finally settled in one place for the past 10 years but have only a thousand or so books. My collection is spread throughout my home and is grouped by topic, then further arranged alphabetically by author: 1) cookbooks near the kitchen, 2) reference books and encyclopedias in the living room and study, 3) woodworking & craft books in a standalone bookcase, 4) children's books in the spare room, and 5) an extensive collection of fantasy/science fiction books in the remaining bookcases.

[@timothykenny]

Nice thanks for sharing that. Any reference books you have that you'd recommend and aren't well known?

[@asdisskagen6487]

​@@timothykenny Hmmm... I would say that most of the reference books I keep are ones that would be commonly held by anyone with an interest in the topic they cover. For example, my nature identification guides are all Audubon society, my herbal and garden plant reference volumes are all from Rodale Press. I don't have a library of rare and unique books as I am just now getting into building a collection to pass on to my grandchildren.

[@timothykenny]

Nice I’ll have to check out the Rodale Press stuff. You might like this video re: bird books: kzbin.info/www/bejne/inPHmaBulrZ2htk

[@LadyoftheLute]

I am a librarian and I was a classical studies major in undergrad, so this video is incredibly interesting to me on multiple levels! Thanks so much for this thorough and thoughtful tour.

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

Glad you enjoyed it. The problem is that my knowledge and interests are very generalized. I don’t have a lot of specific knowledge about any one topic in my titles. I’m super envious of your Classics degree. I’ve thought of going back to school to get a Classics degree, but the language barrier is darned near insurmountable. More than likely, if I were to get another degree, it would be in something like Literature or Folklore.

[@timothykenny]

Thanks for watching and your great questions in your other comment!

[@michaelrichards669]

9.5 hours 😳😳.... i wont watch all today but i will watch 1-2 hours daily. Thankkk Youuu. Very cool.

[@timothykenny]

Thank you Michael, that’s what I originally had in mind, a week of watching an hour or 90m a day. Feel free to ask us any questions in this thread!

[@Derbauer]

As a total book nerd, im eating this up. My late grandfather was an avid book collector, and in our house his library was in the tens of thousands, and he had created his indexing system complete with a stamp on the opening pages with the place he bought the book from and the price and which section of the library it would be located. He collected all kinds, from fiction to philosophy. I was a book nerd from the start and my grandfather really understood the pleasures of reading and i collected everything from Dracula to Asterix comics to childrens books and to this day, im 43, and my library keeps growing, but ive honed into my niche, which is spiritual books, specifically Gaudiya Vaishnav books and its a large enough collection to require digital space to store them all. Thank you zliabrary lol

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

I'm struggling even to picture your grandfather's library. It sounds wonderful but, like, seriously, how were those tens of thousands of books stored? Did he live in a big house, or did he just have piles and piles of books everywhere? I'm trying to design a home library big enough to hold that number of books and, even cost aside, the difficulty in designing a room for that many books is quite high. I'd love to hear more about your library, too. It also sounds wonderful. Did you inherit your grandfather's books? You mentioned going digital--is that where the majority of your books live, or just a few of them?

[@timothykenny]

Thanks for watching! For those interested here is more info on the name mentioned: en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gaudiya_Vaishnavism

[@UtubeH8tr]

Preserving knowledge is a goal beyond noble, it's wonderous.

[@timothykenny]

Thank you, appreciate you watching.

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

Thanks for the kind words. As I never cease telling Timothy, I'm just a dude who likes books. It's the authors and books themselves that deserve the praise.

[@gumis123PL]

you don't preserve knowledge by building one library, you preserve knowledge by making multitudes of copies of said books and spreading them around the world

[@timothykenny]

Thanks for watching! It’s a key debate in the social sciences, should activity be modeled as individual or collective action.

[@aniomi4096]

I have only seen the Loeb collection at my university, they are practically the holy grail of the ancient history department, the fact that one person can own the entire collection is absolutely mind-boggling to me

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

With about thirty years, dedication, serious bargain hunting, and...not gonna lie...some cold cash, one can do almost anything. LOL

[@timothykenny]

Thanks for watching! Why were they considered the holy grail?

[@aniomi4096]

@@timothykenny the collection is a great help in an academic setting because it is fairly comprehensive, most text passages you'd need for a variety of research topics (esp. in an undergrad setting where topics tend to be less niche) are part of the Loeb library and the translation is up to the standards that are set in a university setting. So you are basically guaranteed to find a translation of most anything that you can reliably use for papers or a thesis. Additionally the online library is quite useful to find which exact passages you are looking for or to use on the go. I've used the books and the online tool in every one of my research papers for ancient history and so do the professors. Basically, if you are looking for anything the Loeb library is the first place to look

[@timothykenny]

Good to know. What aspects of history were you researching/writing about, if you don’t mind me asking?

[@aniomi4096]

@@timothykenny I was mostly interested in the Hellenic parts of ancient history so I took courses on historiography with a focus on Herodotus and contacts between ancient Greek cultures and the cultures of the Mesopotamian area. For the latter I took a course comparing early Greek literature (so Homer and Hesiod) with Mesopotamian literature like the epic of Gilgamesh. Obviously with the cuneiform texts the Loeb library wasn't all that helpful but for the rest it's a solid foundation. I've also had friends who had courses on Aristophanes and comedies in a societal context and so on, or a course on the gallic war, where the basis of the essays was obviously in the literature

[@graphicalh450]

Just commenting again to say this has got to be one of my favourite original content videos on the entirety of KZbin. There are not others of original content that spring to my mind right now. And I’m not even a big reader! I’m an extremely casual one but hearing Greg’s fondness and knowledge of so many books, and being able to hear him talk about them for so long, is truly inspiring.

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

Your words are so sweet, and really help combat the shyness I felt at posting something like this on social media. I’m glad Timothy talked me into it. Let me know if you have any questions! I’m trying to respond to everyone but I find that I miss a bunch of them if I’m not looking as closely as I should.

[@timothykenny]

Thank you for your generous words. Great to hear Greg’s library and perspective had an impact on you! Hope you’ll tune in for part 2 and 3!

[@DrKatyaMay]

​@@ClassicalLibraryGuy I am so so very glad Timothy talked you into this Greg. What shyness? It must have slipped away--at least when talking about books & your collection. Even a sense of humor appeared! "Spoiler alert the internet happened"😂. I don't have any questions yet, but I'm only 18 minutes in. I've made myself a cup of coffee, because clearly there's a new plan for my day.

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

@@DrKatyaMay LOL The shyness came in just sharing at all. But it was tempered by getting a chance to have some convos about books. It's all these nice people in the comments, though, that are really bringing it home for me. Thank YOU for watching and commenting!

[@timothykenny]

Thanks Katya...looking forward to your thoughts on the rest of the video!

[@passmethatbook]

I had no idea that I've been collecting books wrong my entire life. This gentleman has given me new life goals. So delighted by this popping randomly into my feed. Thank you for the invaluable dedication of making this video for us all. ❤

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

You can never collect wrong if you're following your heart. Go forth and collect, my friend! Maybe we'll cross paths in a used book store some day.

[@timothykenny]

Glad this video found its way to you. Thanks for watching. Seeing Greg’s library helped me set a new standard for my own library and collecting as well.

[@passmethatbook]

​@@ClassicalLibraryGuyThank you! That would be nice, meeting a fellow book lover, and we can chat about how impressive this library is. ❤ Hope you have a good evening. 😊

[@timothykenny]

Thanks for subscribing. Great to be able to connect fellow book lovers!

[@e.l.2734]

Don't worry, everything will come together! Don't let anxiety take away the fun in the process.

[@tjsurname119]

Thank you so very much to Dear Greg for taking the time, having the love and wisdom to share this masterful library with the World. That we can actually spend time examining it shelf by shelf, as a devoted book lover and collector of classical legal and social science textbooks. Thank you and the World is in your debt for sharing your collection and allowing us to virtually browse every shelf is simply wonderful. Thank you from Australia.

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

You're awfully sweet, and I appreciate your kind words, but I can't say I'm overly wise to have shared my library. Rather, I was cajoled by Timothy. LOL I figured we might get ten or fifteen views. How wrong I was. On what sorts of social science books do focus? I'm drawn to geography, history, psychology, anthropology, and sociology, myself (definitely lacking in poly sci and econ), though the entire field is not well represented in my collection.

[@ashkanjalilian7307]

nah blood too many books

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

@@ashkanjalilian7307No, man, just gotta live long enough to read everything. Having too many books is like having too much love-it’s impossible.

[@ashkanjalilian7307]

@@ClassicalLibraryGuy ah, time enough at last epic uh redditor moment

[@timothykenny]

Thanks for watching!

[@tjsurname119]

Forget the Royal Palace and Mansions - now THIS - THIS - looks like the best Home in the World to me ! Twenty livetimes of absolute fascination and Joy!

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

Yes, I wake up to many smart people in my home daily. It's like the phrase often attributed to Confucius: "If you are the smartest person in the room, then you are in the wrong room." I wake up and KNOW that I'm not the smartest, and that gives me hope.

[@timothykenny]

Thanks for watching!

[@madisonbritten6913]

After a few weeks, I finally got through all 9 1/2 hours of footage. As an avid reader, this was probably the most fascinating KZbin vid I have watched in a while. Learning about a person-their passions, their curiosities, their past academic endeavors- completely through the context of what books are in their home library is such a fascinating concept. It led me to look at my own home library and ask myself, “would a complete stranger be able to look at the books I choose to own & be able to make accurate assessments about who I am & what’s important to me?” I believe that yes, they absolutely could. I just subscribed. I hope you choose to make this a series by continuing to tour other home libraries. (To my knowledge) there is no other KZbin creator that puts out similar content. You’d truly be in a league of your own.

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

Speaking for myself, and I’m sure for Timothy, I’m very glad you liked the vid. Thank you for the kind words.

[@timothykenny]

Thanks for watching Madison and for your thoughtful comment. I def will be doing more of these and Greg and I have several future videos planned as well. If you think your library would make a good addition please email me at [e-mail]. You may also like this: old.reddit.com/r/BookshelvesDetective/

[@hanvour]

I’ve been always looking for opportunities seeing any person’s private library and this one popped up today to my surprise. And frankly this one is absolutely beyond my wildest imagination.

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

Hey, much appreciated. Glad it was worth a watch.

[@timothykenny]

Thanks for watching! Was there anything in particular about Greg’s library that caught your eye?

[@scott6200]

Oh my goodness thank you for this! Every once in a while I check to see if anyone has uploaded a home library tour as I thought I had seen them all. Then I saw THIS. Simply amazing project! I wish you all the best and hope you obtain a large following! I am just starting to collect American Civil War and American Western expansion books myself.

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

I agree that such videos are hard to find, and in this day and age, so are such libraries. Fortunately, there are still a few book lovers out there. Congrats and good luck with your own collection!

[@timothykenny]

Thanks for watching Scott! What are your favorite Civil War and American Western expansion books?

[@shawnbrewer7]

In “Confessions,” St. Augustine mentioned that Cicero’s “Hortensius” inspired him to study philosophy. Although this work was highly popular for centuries, “Hortensius” is no longer available. Investing in a personal library can significantly impact future civilization. Not everything has been digitized, and many more books are out of print than those currently printed and digitized. This is a beautiful library. With that in mind, I highly recommend reading "A Canticle for Leibowitz." 😊

[@timothykenny]

Thanks I will check that out. P.S. OED vid will be coming soon.

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

Thanks for the kind words. Oh, and I have a copy of "Canticle." It's on my TBR list. Soooo much to read!

[@timothykenny]

For anyone interesting, a couple points: 1. TBR is To Be Read list. We discussed a related term, TBR Cart, at: 5:18:11 and 5:19:45 2. What is a "Canticle"? -- According to ChatGPT 4o "In the context of A Canticle for Leibowitz by Walter M. Miller Jr., a "canticle" refers to a hymn or song, often of a liturgical nature, with religious significance. This usage draws on the traditional meaning of "canticle" as a chant or hymn taken from biblical texts but not necessarily from the Book of Psalms, commonly used in religious services. The novel itself is structured as a tripartite work spanning centuries, set in a post-apocalyptic world where the monks of the Albertian Order of Leibowitz preserve remnants of human knowledge through the "dark ages" following nuclear war. The title emphasizes the religious undertones and themes of preservation, cyclical history, and faith, framing the narrative as an extended "song" or "hymn" to the preservation of knowledge and civilization, as well as the human condition. Each section of the book represents a different "verse" or "phase" in humanity’s efforts to regain and potentially repeat its past mistakes, echoing the liturgical cadence of historical cycles."

[@shawnbrewer7]

@ Over the past two years, I have read “Canticle” twice, and each reading has deepened my appreciation for its profound assertion: that the written word is the vessel through which human knowledge is preserved and transmitted. Reflecting on invaluable works like the Epic of Gilgamesh and other ancient texts that illuminate the distant past, one can only ponder the irretrievable knowledge lost in catastrophic events such as the burning of the Library of Alexandria. I am convinced that safeguarding the writings of our ancestors is essential to navigating our journey through the uncharted waters of the future.

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

@@shawnbrewer7 Great points! But it's worth adding that preservation is not enough--we need to re-read these texts, to teach them, to learn them. So many problems with society lately could've been solved if people had looked at the conflicts of the past.

[@athenassigil5820]

For most this would be considered a case of raging bibliomania......however, for me, this is a most appealing Sanctum Sactorum of cloth and vellum! Absolutely amazing and I, too....own many books, but my occupation, location and available funds won't permit a splendorous library such as this! I own a few of the golden coloured books on OE translations of Boethius and other works. It fills my heart with so much joy to see that someone in this digital era still loves not only these classic works, but the beauty of these little bound portals into the past....Yay, to books and personal libraries. Cheers, for this, fine gentlemen!

[@ricardocima]

I tell young people that books are kindle's deluxe editions, in paper!!!

[@timothykenny]

Thank you for watching and your comments. For those wondering, sanctum sanctorum means Holy of Holies.

[@ricardocima]

@@timothykenny kzbin.info/www/bejne/oHrbdoOPoL2ei5o

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

You're very kind. I appreciate the warm thoughts. And yes, it is raging bibliomania. I have no qualms about that. Boethius is one of my faves, by the way. Great taste you have!

[@ricardocima]

@@ClassicalLibraryGuy kzbin.info/www/bejne/bGfKnoyCqa99q8U

[@steffikreis2030]

No idea how this ended up in my recommendations but i am happy about it. I skipped straight to the literature/fiction section as that’s what I mostly read. I also collect books but I am more focused on having a library of books I read and enjoyed or that somehow shaped me. I get rid of books I hate or can’t finish. I love buying and collecting books (and reading them). Many people think I am crazy to spend (so much) money on books when you can just borrow them but they are my passion. It’s always nice to come across other people who are passionate about books in one way or another.

[@timothykenny]

Thanks for watching! Could you share any of your favorite sets or genres or authors you have collected?

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

The way I look at it is this: If you're not hurting anyone else or doing something illegal, then everyone who questions why you (the universal "you") do a thing can just take a hike. Collecting books, IMO, is one of the best forms of collecting there is. I'm also like you in that I get rid of DNF books or books I don't like. I'm also starting to pare down the genre fiction sections. Unless a title was very meaningful to me (e.g., "The Hobbit", which my mother read to me as a kid), I intend to get rid of it. I could use the shelf space, anyway. Keep reading and collecting, my friend!

[@timothykenny]

For those unfamiliar, some context via ChatGPT 4o: 1. “DNF books”: Stands for “Did Not Finish.” This is a common term in the reading community to refer to books that a reader started but did not finish because they lost interest or disliked the content. 2. “Genre fiction”: Refers to fiction written to fit specific literary genres like mystery, fantasy, science fiction, romance, or horror. The commenter mentions paring down their collection of such books unless a title holds personal significance to them.

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

@ good comment! I tend to overlook acronyms and jargon-like terminology until I don’t understand it. LOL

[@timothykenny]

Maybe I should make a jargon video. There’s lots of these things but never seen them collected in a single video

[@pigeon1206]

Considering the Loeb series, it has to be understood that it is literally almost whole Antiquity literature, which survived for approximately 2500 years. You may devour all red and green books and say that you have read all Greeks and Romans. The rest is probably the corpus of Latin and Greek inscrition (epigraphy).

[@timothykenny]

Thanks good to know. Could you explain more about the epigraphy?

[@marcobenito7500]

You mentioned Gramsci and Boethius and i add one great book on a list of prison written books: The Diary of Happiness, Nicolae Steinhardt. Wonderfull video, congratulations!

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

Thanks for the tip. I wasn’t familiar with Steinhardt. But yeah: Boethius is amazing, even if I sound a bit like Ignatius J. Reilly when saying it.

[@timothykenny]

Thanks for watching and for the recommendation! For those unfamiliar here’s a summary of the book via ai: Nicolae Steinhardt’s The Diary of Happiness is a profound memoir that blends autobiography, philosophy, and theology, chronicling the Romanian intellectual’s experiences under the Communist regime. Arrested in 1959 as part of a show trial against so-called enemies of the state, Steinhardt was sentenced to thirteen years in prison. His crime was his refusal to denounce his friends, a decision that led him into a brutal prison system where he endured psychological and physical torment. Yet, rather than breaking him, this period became the catalyst for a profound spiritual transformation that shaped the rest of his life. One of the defining moments of the book is Steinhardt’s conversion to Christianity while in prison. Despite coming from a Jewish background, he found himself deeply moved by the faith and solidarity of the Christian prisoners around him. In a secret and highly dangerous act, he was baptized in a prison cell, an event that he describes as a moment of immense inner liberation. This conversion is not presented as a rejection of his past but rather as an expansion of his intellectual and spiritual life, allowing him to reframe suffering through the lens of Christian joy and redemption. The memoir is structured as a nonlinear meditation rather than a straightforward chronological account, blending prison recollections with philosophical reflections, literary references, and theological musings. Steinhardt engages deeply with figures like Dostoevsky, Pascal, and Boethius, drawing parallels between their insights on suffering and his own experiences. He argues that true happiness is not contingent on external conditions but emerges from inner freedom, a theme reminiscent of Viktor Frankl’s Man’s Search for Meaning. By embracing suffering, he finds an unexpected and paradoxical form of joy, which becomes the central paradox of the book. Steinhardt also uses The Diary of Happiness as a critique of totalitarianism and ideological coercion. He describes the Communist prison system not just as a place of physical incarceration but as an attempt to control the mind and soul. His reflections on freedom, dignity, and moral courage make the book not only a spiritual work but also a political one. Through his defiance, he demonstrates that even in the face of extreme oppression, the individual retains the power to define their own reality. Ultimately, The Diary of Happiness is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. Steinhardt’s journey from suffering to spiritual enlightenment makes it a work that transcends its historical context, speaking to universal themes of faith, freedom, and the pursuit of meaning. His writing is both deeply personal and intellectually rigorous, offering readers a powerful meditation on how one can transform even the most extreme adversity into a path toward inner peace.

[@CineMadame]

Thank you for putting together this fascinating portrait of a library, Timothy. I'm a book person too and live with cca 16000 books in two rooms. Unfortunately space constraints mean quite a few are piled in heaps instead of shelved, but I enjoy digging through them.

[@timothykenny]

Wow 16k is impressive. If you think you’d be interested in giving me a tour of your library please email me at [e-mail]. No need to have the perfect setup either. It’s the ideas that count!

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

I agree that there is a lot of fun in just diving through piles. That’s one thing I miss with the organization. Sometimes, chaos is fun.

[@timothykenny]

Agreed, always important to leave room for serendipity.

[@merce414]

Amazing, thank you!!

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@timothykenny]

Thanks for watching! Did anything in particular about Greg’s library stand out to you?

[@e.l.2734]

God, it's fun to be an adult lol. I'm starting a home library too and having a blast. Love to see Greg's collection!

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

Thanks! And good luck to you with your own journey!

[@e.l.2734]

​@@ClassicalLibraryGuy thanks! Congrats on yours and I hope you enjoy it thoroughly. I know I love mine every second it's here.

[@timothykenny]

Thanks for watching! Any particular favorites in your collection?

[@timothykenny]

And did anything stand out to you from Greg’s library that you may implement yourself in your own library?

[@ozanhoca1430]

Our readings are very similar. ( psychology, sociology, philosophy ).I collected a little world history. And historical books that express my cultural heritage

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

That’s great to hear! Got any cool titles you can suggest?

[@ozanhoca1430]

@@ClassicalLibraryGuy It can be art, cinema, painting, music, sculpture or comics are the ones that come to mind.

[@timothykenny]

Thanks for watching! Any books in particular you’d recommend, esp for psychology/sociology?

[@ozanhoca1430]

@@timothykenny Zygmunt Bauman Clifford Geertz Peter L. Berger & Thomas Luckmann David Harvey Anthony Giddens Pierre Bourdieu Yuval Noah Harari Jareo Diamond Leo Huberman George Ritzer Richard Sennett What immediately comes to my mind

[@timothykenny]

Thanks, I recognize several of these and will look up the rest!

[@eduardoescuderogaleron2061]

This is just the most amazing thing I have ever seen on KZbin. First, ofc the library is incredible and I am more than jealous. And secondly, the work that Timothy Kenny has done, not only the video, but the answering of questions, the high-resolution photos, everything. It is just amazing. Social media are now completely invaded by fast products like TikTok or shorts, but this project is the best proof of why Social Media is such an amazing thing. The democratization of culture production, the accessibility, the breakdown of TV or film limits. Today, social media is totally demonised for allowing the spread of fake news and for idiotising our youth with stupid videos of a few seconds. But aren't the most watched TV programmes the dumbest, isn't the most read newspaper in the UK The Sun, aren't the best-selling books dumb, inconsequential novels? Let's reclaim social media. They are a vehicle for stupidity, of course, so is the printing press, and we will not condemn Gutenberg for that. Let us reclaim the internet as another step in the expansion of culture and knowledge in human history, probably the most consequential one after the invention of writing. From the bottom of my heart, thank you. And excuse my English, I'm just a young Spaniard impressed by your work.

[@timothykenny]

Hear hear. You should run for office!

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

Thank you for the kind words, and I agree completely! Yo no puedo hablar muy bien en Español, pero muchas gracias para las palabras amables. ¡Espero que me entiendas!

[@timothykenny]

Yes. I’m (re) learning Spanish this year in fact. More details here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/aH6Vm32MpteZipY

[@ricardocima]

@@timothykenny portuguese is just next door! Come to Brazil! :)

[@timothykenny]

Yes would be great to visit some day!

[@timothykenny]

**💡Guide for watching and 🔖Timestamps for Last 2 Hours Below: ** **📝The owner of the library featured in this video, Greg of Reddit, is in the comments section as @ClassicalLibraryGuy** 💡Guide for watching: The first hour focuses on a high level overview of Greg's library, plus a focus on some of his most important book sets like the Complete (550+ volume) Loeb Classical Library, the Complete I Tatti Renaissance Library and the Complete Dumbarton Oak Medieval Library. At 1h10m we start the shelf by shelf tour, and you can skip around section by section based on subject matter. The shelf by shelf tour concludes around 7h30m and the last couple hours contain a high level conversation on how Greg uses his library, how he is planning to grow it in the future, and much more. The details on the book giveaway are at the very end of the video. The second part of this bookshelf tour/interview will be released in about a week, so make sure to like and subscribe with notifications turned on to get that videos when it's released. The third part is a live Zoom AMA with Greg which you can attend using the link above, and the recording of that AMA will be uploaded to this channel in about 2 weeks. If you can't attend live, just leave a comment below with your question and I will ask it to Greg during the Zoom call. 🔖Timestamps (continued from video description for last ~2h of video): *** Start of High Level Conversation on Greg's Library, How He Uses It, Future Plans, etc *** 7:34:50 Interesting numbers on the Loeb collection 7:36:40 Interesting numbers on the I Tatti and Dumbarton collections 7:36:58 More interesting numbers on Greg's library *Start of Loeb Focused Section* 7:38:30 Issues with alphabetizing the Loebs 7:40:00 The motivational benefits of having a large library *Start of Focus on Future Plans, How He Uses Library, etc* 7:41:25 Future plans for the library 7:42:50 Airbnb idea 7:44:30 Library and homeowners insurance, wildfire danger 7:45:14 His most expensive book 7:53:30 Growing at a bookshelf a year 8:00:37 What is Greg's daily routine with his library? 8:02:45 Does a large library ever trigger ADD? (too many options) 8:03:30 Husband and Wife chair set in library 8:11:10 How many books does he have in his library? (Comparison to Umberto Ecco) 8:20:45 How should visitors behave when visiting his library? What are the rules? 8:26:00 How his childhood informed how he shelves 8:38:15 Discussion of book storage best practices 8:54:15 How does he balance being a heavy user of Reddit and having a large library and spending a lot of time reading physical books? 9:08:00 What is gained by having a large library (esp for people who are "digital native")? 9:14:24 Book Giveaway details - All books shown 9:15:15 Books Giveaway -- Books shown and described

[@BunnyWatson-k1w]

Loeb Library books. I own over 200 in 2024. I started collecting as a graduate student in the early 1990s. The books were expensive so I had to prioritize the most essentials titles. I later acquired books from two retired professors who had no use for the Loeb series. I later found a stash in a used bookstore that had just come in from a professor who was moving overseas. However the collection continues to get to the 557.

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

You sound like me. That's how I came to a bunch of them, alongside falling in love with Homer, Virgil, and Ovid several decades ago.

[@timothykenny]

Great to hear from another Loeb fan! Which are your favorite in your collection? And which was your first, in Green and in Red?

[@akshathakini157]

I’m from India and live in the US. Saw a copy of Mahabharata in his spectacular collection!!! He really knows what books are worthy of having!! Hats off to this gentleman and also to Timothy for interviewing him! Heartfelt thanks!

[@timothykenny]

Thanks for watching! Do you have a favorite edition of the Mahabharata?

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

Thanks for noticing! I actually started off my journey many years ago with the Bhagavad Gita, which may or may not have been shown in the video. I have a cool illustrated version of it. And I just picked up another copy of the Mahabharata, so I have a lot of reading to do!

[@akshathakini157]

@@timothykenny I love reading hearing different renditions of the Mahabharata since it always gives different insights. Especially lot of regional language ones in India. So no particular favorite as such. Thanks for checking 😊🙏🏼

[@akshathakini157]

@ it is said that there is nothing that you won’t find in the Mahabharata and if it isn’t in there, it won’t be found anywhere else. It is one of the most profound pieces of literature ever created. And the sublime Bhagawad Gita is also a part of it. Glad you are on the wonderful journey 😊🙏🏼

[@timothykenny]

Thanks, good point on the different translations. For those interested here’s a link for more info on the Mahabharata: en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mahabharata

[@LucidProgramming]

This is a marvelous video. Thank you both for taking the time to thoroughly review this collection. What a treasure!

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

Thanks for the kind words!

[@timothykenny]

Thanks, feel free to let us know if you have any questions or if anything particular stands out to you in the tour. Part two of the vid will be published in the next week.

[@DrKatyaMay]

As an educator (as a human), my ❤ was so happy to hear his story of walking a person through the realization that books are in Latin, don't mean they're related to Latin America or Spanish; and having to walk them through realizing that Latin is a language. He has such a wonderful, caring heart 💜. And an amazing ⚡ library 📚📖.

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

You're so sweet! Thank you. Yeah, it's funny when talking to someone about Latin and there's a momentary disconnect before they realize you're making sweeping generalizations about Latin American people. LOL I actually have a couple of Latin shirts, one of which I'm wearing as I type these words. It reads, "Vivant Linguae Mortuae" (Long Live Dead Languages). The other says, "Sola Lingua Bona Est Lingua Mortua" (The Only Good Language is a Dead Language). I'd have preferred the latter to end with "est," in keeping with what very rudimentary knowledge I currently have in Latin, but it's still fun to wear around town. I get looks from people who try, briefly, to read the shirts, then quickly look away. What about you? What subjects do you teach? Is Latin one of them? If so, how did you learn it? I've only taken online courses. I wish I could find a local Latin tutor to beat me over the head with declensions. LOL

[@timothykenny]

Thanks for watching!

[@mermaidmama5890]

I really loved when Greg mentioned movie nights with his family as a child. I too loved pausing my VHS player and referencing my encyclopedia when I was curious about a person or topic. I love the internet, but, there is something about flipping through the pages of your family encyclopedia or scouring the library for information that I really miss. Fantastic video, thank you both for sharing!

[@timothykenny]

Thanks for sharing that memory and thanks for watching! These days I use ChatGPT for this kind of thing. Their mobile app has a dictation feature so it’s like a talking encyclopedia that can answer almost any question. Still, one of the special things about a physical library is the send of scale you get which is very hard to reproduce with digital.

[@timothykenny]

Hope you’ll tune in for parts 2 and 3 as well!

[@mermaidmama5890]

@@timothykenny I will absolutely be tuning in! I’ve already subscribed and set my notifications to alert me of your next video. Thank you for the ChatGPT recommendation, I will have to try it out. I’ve been hesitant about downloading it.

[@timothykenny]

It’s a real game changer. And every quarter it gets another step changer better. Can’t live without it now.

[@timothykenny]

And thank you for subscribing with notifications. We’ve got some really cool things planned for the next two parts and adding more bc of the high interest.

[@MaxMcGuireCPA]

Amazing library and interview Timothy. Love this idea for the book tours and looking forward to watching both parts.

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

Thanks for "tuning in," as it were. Timothy is a good dude.

[@timothykenny]

Thanks Max, appreciate you. Big things to come.

[@FranklyItsMe]

Wow. Just WOW. I’m pretty proud of my teeny little 300 book library. Classics Science Fiction and Fantasy. Lol. Have an Excel spreadsheet and everything. 😂 But this is spectacular!! - and gives me so much more hope for the world for some reason. What a beautiful video and as I just found your channel I have to agree with another person who commented on what a unique and phenomenal exercise in utilizing the power of KZbin to bring the lovers of books together. Thank you so very much! And thank you for sharing your library so thoroughly with us. I can’t wait to do a deep dive into each and every spine on your shelves. 🙏🏻🙌🏼💙 QQ-Just curious if Greg has any idea of how many of his books he’s read? Thank you!

[@timothykenny]

Thanks for watching! We talked about how many books he’s read in the AMA video which will be uploaded fairly soon but he has read most of them to some extend but about half more or less to completion, if I remember correctly. His approach is to move between a lot of books simultaneously instead of going one to the next in a serial fashion so it’s not a simple answer.

[@FranklyItsMe]

@ editing now! Thank you!

[@timothykenny]

Thanks, appreciate it!

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

Aww! Thank you for the very nice words. I was pretty hesitant at first about recording any of this, in part because I didn’t think many folks would be interested. I’m glad I was wrong (and that Timothy had the vision I lacked). Yeah, this has been a lifetime of hoarding and loving books. But it’s always changing. As I’ve said elsewhere, a personal library is a living, breathing construct. Books come and go, shelves get shuffled, etc. it’s always slightly different than when you last saw it. That’s part of what makes it fun for me, and I think for other collectors, too. I’d love to hear more about your books. And, of course, let me know if you have any more questions about this vid. Oh, speaking of questions: You did ask how many I’ve read. I jump around a lot with my reading, and I tend to acquire books faster than I read them. My current TBR is at least one hundred deep, maybe more. I’ll read up to about ten books at once, sometimes. In hindsight, a little discipline would probably do me some good. LOL

[@FranklyItsMe]

@ First - I’m SO EXCITED to hear back from you! There are so many things you said that are profound to me and resonate innately. The way you and Timothy spoke about books, beliefs, connections, relationships and how amazing books are as bridges to many different experiences we need and/or we have is phenomenal. I’ve always been a reader but I fell off of it as my normal routine until last year. I was back in college in 2022, going for a Data Science degree and fell onto a KZbin channel (Hardcore Literature Book Club) which led me to Tristan & The Classics. It was a revelation 😂. Idk how the algorithm worked but the YT gods recognized a need in me. Lol. I don’t love reading hardcovers and my intention is more about reading than collecting. So I researched (aka via Reddit;) ) which editions, translations, dimensions of books would be best for me. I started and still love Penguin Black Classics-floppiness(honestly most important to me), annotation, intros, etc included. Love them and the covers. Also Penguin Deluxe, Oxfords, Vintage, Modern Library etc. So War & Peace was the first I tackled and have continued from there. I’ve read 56 books this year with a 2 month hiatus bc of school. And now I have a few hardcover sets (Tolkien (WMorrow), Austin (Harper Muse) and Harry Potter(1st editions/US) and a myriad of paperback publishers that I felt have offered the best editions. I also started getting into Fantasy and Science Fiction. And because I can’t stop reading a series once I start, most of my fantasy is Trade paperback (don’t appreciate Signet’s Les Mis - The Brick!) 😄and are full series. My classics are from Achebe to Woolf. My fantasy series are from Stephen R. Donaldson to Gene Wolfe. I’m driving my husband a bit crazy bc he loves his Kindle. But after spending most of my time on technology I need to feel the paper in my hands. Plus, because I take pleasure in being child free 😂, I have no problem taking entire days to read, so I will keep my library as mainly paperbacks. Still can’t choose my favorite book but in Classic it’s probably Austin’s hardcover collection by Harper Muse. In Sci-Fi it’s the Red Rising series by Pierce Brown, and Fantasy is The Faithful and the Fallen/Blood & Bone series by John Gwynne. Big and Floppy! 😄 The Werewolf by Montegue Summers Hardcover on Amazon $167.

[@BeesAndButtercups]

I'll have to get back to this in snippets but this is just making my heart sing. Sometimes the algorithm gets it right. Greg sounds like a person well worth talking to.

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

Thank you so much. I’m still in shock that this resonated with so many. I hope you have a great day!

[@timothykenny]

Thanks for watching! Agreed, I learned a lot during the tour.

[@susanberry9198]

A good autobiography about photography and mountaineering is Cory Richards’ The Color of Everything, published in 2024.

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

I’ve actually heard of this book but haven’t yet read it. Thanks for the rec!

[@timothykenny]

Thanks for the recommendation! Sounds interesting.

[@Pizzageek-jc4xp]

Mad props to everyone involved for undertaking this amazing exploit.

[@timothykenny]

Thanks for watching!

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

All thanks go to Timothy for reaching out to me in the first place.

[@timothykenny]

Couldn’t have done it without Greg being so generous with his time!

[@asher_oak]

Oh, goodness. This would be me if my husband and kids didn’t keep my book collecting somewhat in check. I have to continually downsize the collection to keep it from overtaking the house. It still kind of does. Bless Greg’s family for being supportive of his collection. And thank you both for creating the most satisfying KZbin video I’ve ever seen! The unabashed curiosity and desire to learn about subjects without the societal necessitation of ‘productivity’ is delightful. I’m also a commercial photographer and have no ‘need’ to study ancient philosophy or theology, but here we are.

[@asher_oak]

Ah! At Home With Books is also a favorite of mine. I’d love to photograph an updated version if there were any publishers willing to put it out.

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

What what what?! A fellow shooter in these here parts? Welcome, indeed! And you’re right: The unsung heroes of videos like this one are always the family members who put up with it. All I want is to fill the house with shelves, but it’s like approaching the speed of light-the closer you get, the harder it becomes.

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

@@asher_oakokay, seriously. Now it’s getting weird. That’s one of my all-time favorite books and is one I’ve been working to shoot as well. I’m starting to sense a collab! And by the way, great work on your site! I love your aesthetic.

[@timothykenny]

Agreed Asher I looked at your website and you have a great aesthetic and use of light. Here is some more info on the relationship and importance of philosophy and theology via ai: 1. “Philosophy is the handmaid of theology” (Philosophia ancilla theologiae) • The phrase is often attributed to Peter Damian, who discussed the relationship between philosophy and theology in his treatise De Divina Omnipotentia (On Divine Omnipotence). In this work, Damian argued that philosophy, while valuable, must remain subordinate to theology because theology is based on divine revelation and concerns eternal truths. The metaphor highlights the medieval view that human reason (philosophy) serves to clarify and support the higher truths revealed by God (theology). Thomas Aquinas later popularized this idea in his Summa Theologiae, where he frequently emphasized the role of philosophy as a preparatory tool for understanding theological concepts, reinforcing the notion that philosophy’s ultimate purpose is to serve theology. 2. “Theology is the queen of the sciences” (Sacra doctrina regina scientiarum) • This idea is articulated in Thomas Aquinas’s Summa Theologiae (Part 1, Question 1, Article 5), where he defends theology (sacra doctrina) as the highest and most noble science. Aquinas argues that theology qualifies as a scientia because it is based on divine principles revealed by God, rather than being derived solely from human reason. He states that sacra doctrina holds preeminence because it governs and orders all other sciences, directing them toward their ultimate purpose-knowledge and union with God. This concept reflects the scholastic view of the interconnectedness of knowledge, where theology occupies the highest rank due to its eternal focus on salvation and the ultimate truths about God. The phrase encapsulates the medieval understanding of theology’s central role in the hierarchy of learning.

[@timothykenny]

For those interested in the issue of social pressures towards constant productivity, here is some background via ai: Historically, reading and studying classics, ancient philosophy, and theology were viewed as ends in themselves, integral to cultivating the soul and mind. Philosophers such as Socrates and Aristotle emphasized the intrinsic value of knowledge and contemplation as fundamental to a well-lived life. This perspective resonates with intellectual traditions that see learning as inherently meaningful, not something to be justified through external productivity metrics. The modern commodification of intellectual pursuits contrasts starkly with this older tradition. • Book Recommendation: The Republic by Plato. Through Socratic dialogues, Plato explores justice, education, and the ideal society, emphasizing the philosopher’s role in seeking truth for its own sake. • Book Recommendation: Nicomachean Ethics by Aristotle. This foundational text examines the nature of virtue and the good life, arguing that contemplation is the highest form of human activity. Modern critiques of the pressure to “justify” intellectual pursuits often highlight how utilitarianism and productivity-focused mindsets distort the value of reading and study. Thinkers such as Alasdair MacIntyre and Hannah Arendt discuss how modernity’s focus on function and output undermines the “vita contemplativa,” or contemplative life. This shift has relegated pursuits like the study of philosophy or theology to being seen as impractical unless tied directly to career advancement or measurable outcomes. These critiques urge a reevaluation of intellectual pursuits as essential for human flourishing, independent of external validation. • Book Recommendation: After Virtue by Alasdair MacIntyre. This influential work critiques modern moral philosophy, contrasting it with Aristotelian virtue ethics and the idea of practices as inherently meaningful. • Book Recommendation: The Life of the Mind by Hannah Arendt. In this profound exploration of thinking, willing, and judging, Arendt examines the value of contemplation and its marginalization in a world dominated by action and utility. Critics also note how this focus on utility reflects broader trends in capitalist societies, where even leisure and intellectual exploration are commodified. Ivan Illich and Jacques Ellul, among others, critique how technological and economic systems reshape values, turning once intrinsic goods into instrumentalized activities. For many, the joy of engaging with ancient texts, philosophy, or theology is precisely their resistance to this commodification-a space where personal growth and intrinsic value still matter. • Book Recommendation: Tools for Conviviality by Ivan Illich. This work critiques the modern drive to instrumentalize every aspect of human life, arguing for the creation of spaces where individuals can engage in meaningful, self-directed activities, including intellectual pursuits. • Book Recommendation: The Technological Society by Jacques Ellul. Ellul critiques how technological advancement has come to dominate human life, shifting priorities away from values like contemplation and intrinsic meaning. By re-embracing the traditions of the “vita contemplativa,” individuals can resist the societal pressures to commodify their intellectual lives, reconnecting with a deeper sense of purpose and joy in learning.

[@KitKatMontana]

This video is fantastic 👏 👌 🙌 Mom of 3 young kids here, spending time I don't have watching this video. I was absolutely sucked in. Great job, gentlemen!

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

LOL Very much appreciated. I love the visual of you slapping away the kids’ hands cuz you wanna watch a video about books: “But Mooooooooom!” “Quiet! They’re discussing Catcher in the Rye!”

[@timothykenny]

Thanks for watching! Appreciate the kind words.

[@DrKatyaMay]

😂😂😂😂 ​@@ClassicalLibraryGuy

[@timothykenny]

.

[@kaylag9579]

wow! such a beautiful collection. I may have cried a little bit because I think its just beautiful. I was watching and getting excited like ooo I have read this. My little book collectors' heart was just in awe.

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

That’s so sweet! What books caught your eye that you’d like to read?

[@kaylag9579]

@@ClassicalLibraryGuy well I read a variety of books. I have a list of classics that everyone should read in their lives and I saw some of the philosophy books. I stopped reading for about 13 years. Then in 2023 I started reading again. I started with 25 books in a year and then the next 142 read and this year I have read 176 so far. I read almost all genres. Other than the Bible my favourite book so far is the Republic by Plato. Though many classics and some fantasy come very close. So seeing many of my favourites on his shelves and some of the classics/ philosophy and others on the shelf made me so happy. I definitely didn’t stick to what your question was asking lol 😆

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

@@kaylag9579Questions are like cliffs off which we jump into the sea of conversation. It doesn’t matter how you ended up in the waves as long as you enjoy the swim. :-) It’s been MANY years since I’ve read Plato's Republic. Might have to crack that one open again. (Can't believe autocorrect gave me "the Republican".) LOL

[@timothykenny]

Thanks for watching! Those are some great reading numbers. What’s your favorite book of the Bible?

[@kaylag9579]

@@timothykenny I don’t know if I have a favourite. So many gems it’s hard to pick just one. I am greatly enjoying Romans right now though.

[@uncannyvalleywoods]

As a woodworker and bookcase builder, I was wincing so hard listening to y'all talk about the shelving and built-ins. I wanted to shout my two cents at the screen several times. I do have to say that doing the stud installed shelving and then wrapping them in a case is a really fantastic idea. In my book inventory office I use essentially the same setup, but the shelves are not encased the way dude's are. I might have to look into doing that soon. If anyone is thinking about installing shelving like this, I highly recommend doing a full price comparison between materials and finishes, especially if purchasing from a big box store. The pricing often doesn't make a ton of sense when you start comparing your options and it can be startling to know what nicer options you could actually purchase given the budget requirements of some of the "lesser options". That being said, there's no reason to go with solid mahogany shelves when you could use something like mahogany veneered poplar or a veneered composite material. I could go on. If anyone has questions about shelving, materials, or bookcases, ask away.

[@timothykenny]

Thanks a lot for your comment. Would be glad to hear any of the other specific thoughts you had as we were talking.

[@timothykenny]

Btw just ballpark, what would be roughly the prices for a standard bookshelf with the 3 materials you mentioned?

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

You nailed it (pun not intended). I spent a lot on lumber that could've been spent on custom shelves. I found a great guy locally who did my built-ins, and he also drew a plan to encase the entire room. But I also need a bigger room! LOL

[@uncannyvalleywoods]

@@timothykenny It's a difficult thing to answer because it really relies on the tools available on hand. I can buy rough sawn 4/4 poplar (4/4 = 1 inch thick) for about 3 dollars a board foot (board foot equals 1 inch thick by 12 wide by 12 tall) then bring that home to my shop, mill it (edge plane and thickness plane) and if you subtract the time and the tools, I'm only out about $16 for an 8 foot length. Compare that to "F4S" (fished on 4 sides) poplar that you buy from a big box store, and you'll be looking at closer to $10 per linear foot, which is $80 for the same 8 foot board I paid $16. Compare that to the 10k estimate that was given on those red oak built-in and what you're looking at is a mark-up that considers the builder's tools and time. The materials themselves are relatively cheap (rough sawn) even in California. Rough sawn red oak is probably $3 - $4 a board foot rough sawn most places. If I were low balling that built in or just building it for myself, I could probably build it with about $800 and a couple weekends. The mark up definitely pays for the wood worker, not the materials.

[@uncannyvalleywoods]

@@ClassicalLibraryGuy You definitely found a great woodworker. Your library looks incredible!

[@classiccuisine7001]

After a month later I finally watched the whole thing. Thanks for posting this!

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

Thanks for watching! Long-form YT vids are definitely something for which you have to make time. I used to watch six-hour videos and those would take me almost two weeks. Let me know if you have any questions!

[@timothykenny]

Thanks for watching and for subscribing! Any highlights from your viewing, or anything specific you noticed or learned?

[@classiccuisine7001]

@@timothykenny I did not know that Loeb had so many books. I did purchased about nine volumes. I do plane on buying more . They look nice on the shelves. I'm looking at the digital form as well.

[@timothykenny]

Did you already have the 9 or you got them after watching? Which of the 9 are your favorite(s)?

[@classiccuisine7001]

@@timothykenny I already had them.I have not read them.

[@lorithomas9536]

2:44:19 Fly Away Home is the movie with Ana Paquin. Loved the move growing up, but did not know it was a book. I love this collection so much and as someone who will be studying Ancient History this is giving me a lot of great ideas!

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

I think I was confused and thereby confused everyone. The book, Fly Away Home, by Eva Bunting, was, I believe, the inspiration for the film with the same name. This book and film were based on the real-life tales of Bill Lishman. Check Wikipedia for more. The book of which I was thinking, and likely referring, however, was Winged Migration by Jacques Perrin, which is more of a nature book about how lots of different birds migrate. Long story short: I’m a space cadet. Sorry for any confusion.

[@lorithomas9536]

@@ClassicalLibraryGuy no you are 100% fine I hade not done any digging about the book yet but I did know that the movie was based on real events. Glad to know that there is a difference and one way or another now I have so many new books to read because of this vid and I am only 3 hours in. (Been pacing myself with the vid) but I do just want to say thank you and you have given me so much joy and hope that my books collecting hobby so thank you!

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

@@lorithomas9536 thanks for the kind words. I’m happy I could offer inspiration. We book people are statistically dwindling, so we should all stick together. LOL Let me know if you have any specific questions or need more suggestions. Also, what types of books are you into? Favorite genres, etc.?

[@lorithomas9536]

@@ClassicalLibraryGuy what is the Christmas color editions called again! I will be studying a lot of Ancient Greek and Latin so I know that I will utilize them one day! Thanks in advance! I will have so many more questions for you I’m sure one day!

[@lorithomas9536]

@@ClassicalLibraryGuy I am similar to you. I have everything on my book shelf from history books, ancient history books, to mythology, classics, Shakespeare, fantasy and romance and everything in between! Only about 500 books on my shelf currently but I want a Bell inspired library one day with every game possible. I also 100% agree with and have been saying for years that all “religions and myths” from all walks of life are similar. At the end of the day we are all people who have the same basic belief system and understanding, even if we do not act like it. Especially now!

[@BKNeifert]

Nice library! We have about 400 books at my house,---all classics on my bookshelves, but deep into the canon. Ethics remain the same. People change overtime, but our presiding psychological nature doesn't. We have innate sense of justice, until we make choices that remove it from us. I started with Wordsworth and Byron. Found it hit me with such deep thoughts, I got hooked.

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

Two great picks for authors and an excellent point about, as you put it, "...our presiding psychological nature." That's what I love about the so-called classics: The stories resonate no matter the age in which they're read. And your second point is rather diplomatic--if we don't let ourselves be good, others will make us bad (I'm paraphrasing, of course). Or, as George Santayana once said, "Those who do not learn history are doomed to repeat it."

[@timothykenny]

Thanks for watching! Here is some info below on the intellectual history of ethics that may interest you and other viewers, via ai: 1. Traditions Represented by the Comments A. Classical Natural Law and Essentialist Views of Human Nature • Basic idea: Human beings have an innate moral sense (whether implanted by God, “nature,” or reason). Ethics may be refined by culture, but in its essence, moral reality endures over time. • Key ancient sources: • Plato, Republic (the notion of an eternal Form of the Good) • Aristotle, Nicomachean Ethics (virtue as rooted in human nature and rationality) • Cicero, On Duties (universal moral norms grounded in reason and nature) • Influential medieval/early-modern expansions: • Thomas Aquinas, Summa Theologiae (natural law theory) • Hugo Grotius, On the Law of War and Peace (proto-natural rights arguments) B. Humanist and “Great Books” Tradition • Basic idea: The so-called “canon” of great literature and philosophy encapsulates timeless insights about the human condition, including moral truths and psychological constants. • Key modern champions: • Mortimer Adler and the Great Books of the Western World project • T. S. Eliot’s essays on the “classics” as the shared heritage of Western culture • Romantic authors (Wordsworth, Byron) also sometimes championed a universal human spirit or imagination-albeit focusing on individual feeling and nature. C. Enlightenment Moral Sense & Universal Resonance • Basic idea: Even if not always framed in strict “natural law” terms, some Enlightenment figures argued for a universal moral sense (sympathy, conscience) that remains stable through time. • Key sources: • David Hume, An Enquiry Concerning the Principles of Morals (though Hume is often seen as an empiricist who can be read as more relativistic, he still posits an underlying human “sympathy”) • Adam Smith, The Theory of Moral Sentiments (the “impartial spectator” as a near-universal moral faculty) George Santayana’s famous warning-“Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it”-also signals a classical/humanistic emphasis on lessons from history’s enduring patterns. 2. Main Traditions That Would Disagree A. Historically Contingent or Relativist Theories • Basic idea: Morality depends on historical and cultural conditions rather than an enduring universal nature. Human “essence” is historically constructed or so interwoven with culture that it cannot be timeless. • Key modern sources: • Michel Foucault, Discipline and Punish or The Order of Things (the “subject” and its morality vary with social institutions and discourses) • Jean-François Lyotard, The Postmodern Condition (skepticism toward “grand narratives” of universal moral truth) • Richard Rorty, Philosophy and the Mirror of Nature (pragmatist critique of timeless truths) B. Marxist or Social‐Constructivist Views • Basic idea: Morality (and indeed human nature) is shaped by class relations, economic structures, and ideology, so it does not remain unchanged across history. • Key texts: • Karl Marx, The German Ideology (the “ruling ideas” reflect the ruling class; morality is not a timeless essence but part of social production) • Modern Neo‐Marxist or critical‐theory texts similarly emphasize that what people call “universal ethics” can mask historically specific power relations. C. Nietzschean Genealogical Critique • Basic idea: “Moral truths” are culturally constructed, often inversions of earlier systems of valuation, and to say that ethics “remain the same” across centuries is naïve. • Key source: • Friedrich Nietzsche, On the Genealogy of Morality (morality as evolving from power and ressentiment rather than universal human nature) D. Existentialist Perspectives • Basic idea: Human beings do not have a fixed essence or innate moral sense; rather, we create our values through free choice in a meaningless or indifferent universe. • Key sources: • Jean-Paul Sartre, Existentialism Is a Humanism • Simone de Beauvoir, The Ethics of Ambiguity 3. Representative Books (Ancient to Contemporary) Below is a short list of texts that might be cited to explore or debate the views in the original comments: 1. Ancient/Classical • Plato, Republic • Aristotle, Nicomachean Ethics • Cicero, On Duties 2. Medieval and Early Modern • Thomas Aquinas, Summa Theologiae (natural law) • Hugo Grotius, On the Law of War and Peace 3. Enlightenment and Romantic • David Hume, An Enquiry Concerning the Principles of Morals • Adam Smith, The Theory of Moral Sentiments • Wordsworth, The Prelude (poetry embodying Romantic introspection) • Byron, Childe Harold’s Pilgrimage (Romantic engagement with individual feeling) 4. 19th‐Century / Early 20th‐Century Critics • Karl Marx, The German Ideology (historical materialism) • Friedrich Nietzsche, On the Genealogy of Morality (genealogical critique of moral absolutes) • George Santayana, The Life of Reason (where variations of his famous line appear) 5. 20th‐Century & Contemporary • Michel Foucault, Discipline and Punish (historicity of morality and penal systems) • Jean-François Lyotard, The Postmodern Condition (skepticism about universal narratives) • Richard Rorty, Philosophy and the Mirror of Nature (pragmatist challenges to “timeless” truths) • Charles Taylor, Sources of the Self (exploration of moral sources in the Western tradition, both universalist and historicist strands) 4. Additional Perspectives: Evolutionary Morality and Human Rights Debates A. Evolutionary Psychology / Evolutionary Morality • Basic idea: Morality is (at least partly) a product of evolutionary pressures that favored cooperation, altruism, and other pro-social behaviors. But “innate” moral sense need not be timeless; rather, it can be understood as an adaptive mechanism that has changed or manifested differently under varying conditions. • Potential critique of the original comment: 1. Continuity vs. Flexibility: While humans might share certain evolved traits (e.g., empathy, reciprocity), the precise form of moral codes can shift as cultural and environmental pressures shift. Thus, we do not necessarily have the same stable moral intuitions across centuries-our shared moral “toolkit” can nonetheless lead to quite different moral judgments in different contexts. 2. Biological vs. Cultural Evolution: Evolutionary psychologists emphasize that although some moral foundations may be rooted in our biology (e.g., care/harm, fairness/cheating), cultural evolution can drastically reshape how these foundations are expressed. • Key sources: • Edward O. Wilson, Sociobiology (introduced biological bases for social behavior) • Richard Dawkins, The Selfish Gene (the gene’s-eye view of cooperation and “altruism”) • Jonathan Haidt, The Righteous Mind (moral foundations theory, exploring how evolution might shape different moral intuitions) B. Human Rights Debates • Basic idea: Modern human rights discourse often claims certain universal moral principles (e.g., that all humans have inalienable rights). However, these principles have contested origins and have evolved historically. • Potential critique of the original comment: 1. Historicizing “Universal” Rights: Scholars like Samuel Moyne argue that the global ascendancy of “human rights” as the moral language of our time is relatively recent-post-World War II, and especially post-1970s-and by no means an “unchanging” tradition. 2. Variations in Definitions and Enforcement: Different states, cultures, and political actors dispute what counts as a “human right,” complicating claims of an innate, universal moral framework across time. • Key sources: • Samuel Moyne, The Last Utopia: Human Rights in History (argues that human rights became an aspirational, universalizing language only in the late 20th century) • Lynn Hunt, Inventing Human Rights (explores the 18th-century origins of rights language while noting the historical contingency of such concepts) Taken together, evolutionary theories of morality and the history of human rights demonstrate that while certain aspects of moral thought may appear stable or universal, the social, biological, and political contexts that shape our ethics can-and do-change over time. This challenges the idea that there is a single unvarying moral essence across history, offering a more dynamic and historically contingent view of both ethical norms and the human condition. In Summary: • The commenters’ emphasis on “unchanging ethics,” “innate justice,” and “the perennial relevance of classics” resonates with classical, humanist, and certain Enlightenment/Romantic philosophies. • A variety of historical relativist, Marxist/social‐constructivist, Nietzschean, existentialist, and evolutionary‐psychology critiques-alongside debates over the changing nature of human rights-would question whether moral ideas are truly fixed or simply adaptive, historically contingent constructs.

[@BKNeifert]

@@timothykenny Yes, but the proof is in the pudding, in how nice the world was when we believed those things. Human rights are unalienable. Even if they're denied to someone, the human being requires it to be happy, and have the best chance at flourishing. By being unalienable, it's a moral travesty to deny them to someone. I think Nietzsche and Marx are self evidently wrong, as all the moral sages found a consistent moral framework. And when they stuck to it, life was a lot happier for everyone. That moral framework is the Bible's--that describes our moral nature, both the retributive and lenitive. And I think muddying the philosophical waters, by saying "Things are" that doesn't describe how they ought. Nor does it prove itself, as people function better when there's trust in a society, and people can feel at ease around their neighbors.

[@timothykenny]

Thanks for your comment. Just wanted to flesh out the contested nature of the terms in intellectual history so people can track the different schools of thought that often use similar words and language.

[@BKNeifert]

@@timothykenny Yeah, I'm familiar with most of it.

[@joakofandy]

I haven't seen the whole thing yet, but you know it's a gem when you pick random parts of the video and all are interesting

[@timothykenny]

Glad to hear! Thanks for watching!

[@GreatBooksGuy]

Absolutely incredible collection - thank you for sharing! I am inspired to expand my own collection (which is already colossal).

[@timothykenny]

Thanks for the comment. Looking forward to what you do with your channel and great website by the way. I'll be reaching out, would be great to tour your collection. Was just looking at your site, great list here: greatbooksguy.com/great-books-project/ancient-books/

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

You sound like my new best friend.

[@timothykenny]

.

[@gabrielhideki223]

Hey, Kenny, I'm watching and enjoying this video one bit at a time. Thank you so much for your work, because it will help me with references for future projects. Besides, those are great books to contemplate as well lol. Will we have a second part coming soon?

[@timothykenny]

Yes, second part coming any day now. What are your future projects? Thanks for watching!

[@gabrielhideki223]

@timothykenny Long-term projects, such as reading ancient literature, philosophy and christian theology in the latin and greek originals, as well as the new testament. Besides, I'd love to learn three modern languages for cultural and editorial purposes: deutch, french and italian. These are my "linguistical" projects. I hope to reach them by the end of my life lol

[@timothykenny]

Nice. What books or other resources are you using for learning the 3 languages?

[@joanabug4479]

I clicked around in the video and hit the time around 1:24 when you guys discussed the Dictionary of Obscure Sorrows. Coincidentally I bought my own recently and love it haha!

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

Nice! I always love when I see someone else’s shelves and find that we share copies of certain books.

[@timothykenny]

Thanks for watching! What made you buy it? Are you also a writer?

[@acrab1521]

I've been watching this in chunks for the last few days. What a great video! I hope this becomes a series - (ultra)longform library tour/interviews/open-ended book discussions. If either of you had a podcast discussing books, I'd tune in. Q: What's your recommended method and/or resource to determine the best translation of a classic?

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

Thanks for the kind words! No podcast yet for me, but maybe one day. Meanwhile, my answer to your question is, of course, solely my opinion: If I'm reading, let's say, "The Iliad," I'll check several different translations to see which one feels the most natural to me. I ended up falling in love with the Fitzgerald translations of the Iliad, the Odyssey, and the Aeneid. I tend to avoid verse translations of verse from another language because it's very rare that the meaning, the meter, and the rhyme can be kept intact across languages. I also like to pick translations that are generally well received. Ultimately, though, if the translation feels dry or forced or purple, I'll avoid it. Just my two cents.

[@timothykenny]

Thanks for watching! Great question. That’s the plan, more ultra long form tours. Greg and I also have some additional convos and videos planned beyond the three announced so far.

[@acrab1521]

@@ClassicalLibraryGuy Thanks for the reply - that makes sense. I'd like to read Crime and Punishment but want to feel like I've picked the "best" translation, so I think my strategy will be to visit some large bookstores and take cellphone pictures of the first few pages of as many different options as I can find, and then compare them all before buying one.

[@timothykenny]

If that’s your plan def check out archive.org. You can borrow different versions simultaneously and compare them side by side!

[@ViktorEremita]

A great Umberto Eco book is also "This Is Not the End of the Book" which is his conversations with Jean-Claude Carriere. I think Greg would love this.

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

Thanks for the recommendation! This sounds wonderful.

[@timothykenny]

Thanks for watching Viktor! Nothing we appreciate more than a good book recommendation. If there any others that come to mind as you watch please let us know!

[@ViktorEremita]

@@ClassicalLibraryGuy @timothykenny You're welcome. Fun fact, this book is originally published in French, and it is also translated to my language, Serbian. "Ne nadajte se da ćete se rešiti knjiga" which is more like the original title and it literally means "Don't expect to get rid of books". Also, another great book is Frédéric Barbier's book Histoire du livre, but I do not think it is translated to English (there is a Serbian translation). Also, also, I would recommend author Alberto Manguel and his books: The Library at Night, A History of Reading, Packing My Library, The Dictionary of Imaginary Places.

[@timothykenny]

Thanks. You might like this: www.amazon.com/Oxford-Companion-Book-Michael-Suarez/dp/0198606532

[@ViktorEremita]

@@timothykenny Thanks. I think I saw recently concise edition of this and I think it was called "The Book". I'm sure they are great but I'm afraid still a bit pricey for me. :(

[@zuzkasss]

hey :) Just want to say I love this video so far!! and your voice is so calming!

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

Thanks for the kind words about the vid. I assume you’re referring to Timothy’s voice, though, and not mine. Right? 😊

[@timothykenny]

Thanks for watching! I would assume you’re referring to Greg’s voice. Any books in particular you noticed or stood out to you?

[@danielroy8232]

at 2:53:33, Bach wrote a series of pieces called "the well-tempered clavier" in which it showed off how his tuning system could be played equally well in all key signatures without retuning the instrument.

[@timothykenny]

Thank you. Please let us know if there are any other music references you pick up along the way that we missed!

[@mfuntanilla7476]

Thank you for this content. I am going to look up some of the books being mentioned- so many topics that I want to explore!

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

That’s awesome! You’re in for an adventure. Let me know if I can answer any questions. Happy reading!

[@timothykenny]

Thanks for watching! Glad you got some inspiration from Greg’s library. Any in particular you’re planning to buy/borrow first?

[@ZackSkrip]

The entire Migne Payrologia Graeca can be purchased from Greece for about $3-4k last I checked. I purchased the 3vol Menologian for a bit under $200 delivered. They are beautiful hardcovers with sewn bindings. I would love to see that full set in person one day. Love this! Thank you both!

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

Thanks for the kind words. That set sounds interesting. I Googled it but didn't find much in my cursory search. Can you tell me what it's about and why it moves you?

[@timothykenny]

I found these: en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Patrologia_Graeca patristica.net/graeca/ And got this from ChatGPT 4o: The Migne Patrologia Graeca (MPG) and the Pre-Nicene, Nicene, and Post-Nicene Fathers series in English have similar aims in that they are both large collections of writings by early Christian authors and Church Fathers, but they differ significantly in scope, language, and editorial history. 1. Migne Patrologia Graeca: This collection, compiled by Jacques-Paul Migne in the 19th century, contains writings of the Greek Church Fathers from the earliest Christian centuries up to 1439, covering both Orthodox and some early Eastern Christian texts. It comprises 161 volumes and is a monumental resource primarily in Greek with accompanying Latin translations (where available). MPG’s focus is on texts originally written in Greek, such as the works of early theologians, scholars, and bishops who influenced Eastern Christianity. 2. Pre-Nicene, Nicene, and Post-Nicene Fathers (PNF/NPNF): This series, edited and translated into English primarily in the 19th century, focuses on key Christian authors and Church Fathers from the 2nd century through the late 5th century (and beyond for Post-Nicene Fathers). The collection is divided into three main series, each covering a different chronological segment: • Ante-Nicene Fathers (Pre-Nicene): Covers works before the First Council of Nicaea (325 AD). • Nicene and Post-Nicene Fathers (First and Second Series): Covers writings from the time of the Nicene Council through later significant authors, including Augustine, Chrysostom, and others. Key Differences: • Language: MPG is primarily in Greek (with Latin translations), while the PNF/NPNF series is translated into English, making it more accessible to English-speaking readers. • Scope and Focus: MPG is a broader and more comprehensive collection of Greek texts, whereas PNF/NPNF provides a selected set of translations of key writings by Greek and Latin Church Fathers, including Augustine, Athanasius, Chrysostom, and others. • Editorial Approach: MPG has a more encyclopedic and exhaustive editorial approach focused on collecting as much as possible, while PNF/NPNF is curated and more selective in terms of theological importance and relevance for Western Christianity. So, while they both focus on early Christian writings, MPG is a more extensive compilation of Greek works, while the PNF/NPNF series offers a curated English translation set of important early Christian texts spanning Greek and Latin traditions.

[@timothykenny]

Yea I would also be interested in what you like about the MPG?

[@ZackSkrip]

​@@ClassicalLibraryGuy I just want you to know that my 12yo son and I are nerding out together watching this right now. I've been teaching him Greek and Latin, and while he persists in reading English when there are so many good Greek books to read, I haven't given up hope on him! The PG series (also the Patrologia Latina and Syrica) were published by a monk named Migne back in the 19th century. Each text had the original language along with a Latin translation. The PG series sought to publish all extant Christian texts to make them available to the clergy. Many of the newer editions still rely on Migne texts because no other critical editions have been published. Of course where a modern edition has been made, it always surpasses Migne, but they are a monument of publishing for the day and age. en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jacques_Paul_Migne www.roger-pearse.com/weblog/patrologia-graeca-pg-pdfs/ patrologiagraeca.org/patrologia/en/patrologia-graeca.html

[@timothykenny]

Thanks will check out those links. Would be great also if you could share what method you are using to teach these languages to your son, and any resources you’ve found most useful and effective.

[@inmav2485]

Oh dear me! This is amazing. Thanks for showing this. I just need to know how he keeps the dust at bay. Everything looks pristine! We have 6000 books in our library and dust IS a problem.

[@timothykenny]

Great question! I will ask him that on the AMA.

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

Dust is a problem, it’s true, but I think to varying degrees. Our place is generally pretty clean, and we try to dust the books and vacuum the rooms once or twice a week. It also helps that I’m almost constantly fussing with the books, and every time I take one down or move a shelf around, I give it a thorough cleaning.

[@timothykenny]

I don't think I asked you about if you use an air purifier or if you've ever tried one. And then also, if you have central air, if that is filtered and how. Will add to the AMA questions list.

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

@ I do have central air with a fairly standard filtration unit. But no purifiers or anything.

[@timothykenny]

Probably all you need. But was thinking maybe you had one of those Dyson things.

[@erikareading]

I JUST saw your pictures on Reddit two days ago. Thanks for doing a video. So cool.

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

Glad you saw them. Thanks for stopping by YT as well. 🙂

[@timothykenny]

You must have seen it on r/bookshelf. Lots of cool stuff there. Thanks for watching!

[@jdcb2]

Just finishing up the video, loved it. I wrote down a few titles that I saw to see if I can find a way to read them. Thanks!

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

That’s amazing. Thank you! Stay tuned for Part Two! Plus the AMA. And so much more. LOL

[@timothykenny]

Thansk for watching! Yea, we’ve got some additional videos planned beyond the AMA part 3 so make sure to subscribe to get notifications on those. What titles were at the top of your list?

[@ajmiutube]

Excellent Video ....thank you and very grateful for sharing

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

Thanks for watching all of it! I can't believe we talked as long as we did.

[@timothykenny]

Thanks! Was there anything in particular about the video you liked most?

[@raighofsunshine]

please drop part two!

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

I think it’s coming very soon!

[@timothykenny]

Thanks for watching. Hoping to get it out very soon!

[@ThomtheArtist-js9kp]

Absolutely incredible!

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

Thanks!

[@timothykenny]

Thanks for watching! What did you like most about Greg’s collection?

[@ViktorEremita]

Another book I think Greg would like is Roland Barthes - Camera Lucida: reflection on photography, if he doesn't have it already.

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

Ooh, great suggestion! Thank you. And no, I don't already have that one. I just read the blurb on it and have often thought the same thing: Imagery exists beyond language, or at least on a more primal level of language. I may not be able to speak a particular language, but I can share an image with someone who only speaks that language, and we can connect on a different level. That's one of my favorite aspects of photography. So, thank you for bringing up the topic!

[@timothykenny]

Thanks for watching and for the recommendation! For those unfamiliar, via ai: Short Answer Yes, Roland Barthes’ Camera Lucida plays on the older concept and phrase Camera Obscura. Both are Latin phrases: • Camera Obscura translates to “dark chamber (room)” • Camera Lucida translates to “light chamber (room)” Longer Explanation 1. Camera Obscura (“dark room”) refers to a historical device-a darkened chamber with a tiny pinhole that projects an image of the outside onto the opposite wall. It is often considered a precursor to modern photography because it demonstrates the basic principle of how a lens or opening can capture and project an image. 2. Camera Lucida (“light chamber”), by contrast, is also the name of a drawing device from the nineteenth century that uses a prism to overlay a reflected image of a scene onto a piece of paper, helping artists sketch with realistic proportions. 3. Roland Barthes’ choice of the title Camera Lucida deliberately reverses the “dark chamber” idea of Camera Obscura, suggesting that his investigation into photography will illuminate (rather than obscure) the nature of photographs. This is both a nod to historical optical inventions and a metaphor: whereas the dark room points to the hidden process of image-making, the “light room” suggests a space of clarity, reflection, and personal insight that Barthes seeks in the photographic image.

[@ViktorEremita]

@@timothykenny @ClassicalLibraryGuy I liked the idea how photographs can be tools for personal reflection, when you are looking yourself in old photos, and I guess too when photographer looks at his/her photos that they have done in the past versus the ones now... If I recall correctly Barthes called that - punctum... I never really got into photography as much I would like. Years ago, I watched a lot of youtube tutorials on how to take good photographs, I had some old point-and-shoot canon, I tried a little bit, but never really got far with it... Its like with drawing I guess - I come back to it every once in a while... I have, I think, so far only 2 books on photography - Camera Lucida, and another one which is photographs of London. I have more books on and about film. I have been writing short stories since I was a kid, and at some point got interested in screenwriting, so I started to read about that topic, and also tried to write some screenplays myself (short forms only, usually I would take a short story by a famous author and try to adapt it into a screenplay, just as a practice...) It's fun.😃 these are the books I have on that topic: drive.google.com/drive/folders/1RkAOCFbxXetfHnjxJS_MyJQrWU0O_xd4?usp=sharing

[@timothykenny]

For those interested, background on punctum, via ai: The concept of “punctum” originates from Roland Barthes’ book Camera Lucida. Barthes uses the term to describe the emotional impact or the personal resonance of a photograph on the viewer. Unlike the “studium,” which refers to the cultural, historical, or aesthetic interest we might take in a photo, the punctum is deeply subjective. It is a detail in the photograph that “pricks” or wounds the viewer, evoking a strong emotional response, often tied to personal memory or meaning. For example, in a family photo, the viewer might notice a small, seemingly insignificant detail-a gesture, an expression, or even an object in the background-that unexpectedly stirs feelings of nostalgia, sadness, or joy. This detail constitutes the punctum, standing out in a way that transcends the photographer’s intent and connects with the viewer on an intimate, visceral level.

[@timothykenny]

Thanks for sharing the photos. If you’d ever consider sharing your library in my channel would be great to do a tour of your library. Please email me at [e-mail] if you are open to it.

[@ganeshashwin4439]

I love this idea, but how do you deal with the fire hazard?

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

I stare back into the flames, exposing the fiery embers of my own soul. …Sorry, what was the question? LOL It’s no more a fire hazard than anything else. Life is about finding balance. If I were really worried about such things, I could remove all flammable objects from the house, wear an asbestos suit at all times, and carry a fire extinguisher everywhere I go, but I choose not to. There’s always a balance of risk and reward, but if I lived my life based on risk only…well, that wouldn’t be much of a life. :-)

[@timothykenny]

Thanks for watching! Greg doesn’t collect rare books so worst case scenario he can reconstitute it from scratch using his digital catalog.

[@Pickywisdom]

I just discovered this video because KZbin recommended it to me today, this is so good. Please do more videos like this one. I just subscribed.

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

Welcome aboard! Glad you’re enjoying the content. Be sure to jump in with any questions!

[@timothykenny]

Thanks, will do! Was there anything specific in the video that stood out to you?

[@Pickywisdom]

@@timothykenny the time that you guys took to discuss the different books

[@timothykenny]

Thanks! Hope you’ll tune in for parts 2 and 3!

[@amyk6403]

Ok....I'll be back later to indulge in the history section. Thanks for documenting this amazing collection. ❤

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

Thanks for watching and for the kind words.

[@timothykenny]

Looking forward to it. Thank you for all your high quality comments!

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

Thanks. My history collection is a bit lacking. I have a lot of Folio Society titles (too many, I sometimes think) but not as many of the good, gritty history books that I know are out there.

[@timothykenny]

Don’t leave us hanging!

[@ejakobs9881]

Fascinating. I am becoming a big believer in physical books. Digitization is definitely a convenience, but it also gives way to a lot of risk/problems if overly depended upon.

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

Interesting point that I don’t think we discussed that much in the video. I’m not necessarily against digitalization or the “Kindle-fication” of books as much as I just prefer the tactile feeling, the scent, and the old fashioned approach to books. I like, for example, that one can read when the power goes out. You just need an oil lamp. I like that you can flip a book on a table with a loud whomp. I like that, when I dislike a book, I can use it as a fly swatter. LOL But I also love that ancient works can be digitized and made available to the masses. There are some books that, were I a specialist researcher, I might not be able to touch physically. In cases like that, a digital copy is imperative. Overall, though, I obviously agree with you that physical books amazing.

[@ejakobs9881]

@@ClassicalLibraryGuy I can relate, especially about the power going out. Last time I had a hurricane roll through, I would have been bored to tears without books!

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

@@ejakobs9881 I'm just glad you're safe and that you had the comfort to read during a storm. Hurricanes are no joke.

[@ejakobs9881]

@@ClassicalLibraryGuy Thanks! Always gotta be prepared!

[@timothykenny]

Thanks for watching! Just FYI, an eInk Kindle can last for over a month on a single charge if you don't use the backlight feature. Can be very valuable on long flights or when traveling especially, where you can't take a lot of books with you.

[@seishay]

holy **** that's MASSIVE for a home library!

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

Imagine if everyone were given a budget for a home library upon finishing school (and the higher your degree, the higher the budget for your library), kinda like how PhD graduates in Finland are given swords. If every single house were built with an additional library just like they're all built with bathrooms and kitchens, and the question wasn't "Should I build a library?" but "What books should I put in the library?" Each university or Federal grant could offer a "Knowledge Fund", which, over several generations, would enrich everyone's life. Some people might sell the books, but you wouldn't be able to take cash instead of the books. Person A has an undergrad degree: "That's five thousand dollars in books for you. You have six months to decide." Person B has a Master's: "That's ten thousand dollars in books for you." Person C has a PhD: "That's thirty thousand dollars in books for you." Some people might buy a single, expensive, rare book. Others would fill the library with pulp fiction. Libraries would become the centerpieces of homes. No longer would people ask, "What do you do?" Instead, they'd say, "Tell me about your library." If we revered education and knowledge above some of the other focal points of Western Civilization...man, there's no telling what we'd be able to accomplish.

[@timothykenny]

Thanks for watching! Local libraries are adding more and more to their digital collections you can access at home such as Libby. It’s not physical but it can be great for audiobooks and ebooks and even video courses.

[@seishay]

​@@ClassicalLibraryGuy I'm from Indonesia and we don't really have a "reading culture" here, but I was told by my grandpa that my great grandpa was few lucky people who had the privilege to study during the dutch colonial era. He had a room dedicated for his books (in Dutch), maps, and old Javanese manuscripts. He would open that room to the public occasionally on the weekends. But unfortunately his house was burned down and his lands got taken by the people due to ties with the dutch's rail operator (NIS) and his books were never to be seen again. Now Indonesia is kind of low in reading literacy when compared to previous years (early 2000) despite having claims of better literacy. Now I'm inspired to open a library for my area, (we are missing more third places day by day in Indonesia). Thanks for the tour!

[@timothykenny]

For those unfamiliar, via ai: A third place refers to a social environment separate from the two primary spaces of daily life: the home (first place) and work or school (second place). The term was popularized by sociologist Ray Oldenburg in his book The Great Good Place (1989), where he described third places as informal public gathering spaces that foster community, connection, and social interaction. Examples of third places include coffee shops, parks, community centers, and libraries. A library serves as a third place in the following ways: 1. Inclusive Access Libraries are open to people of all ages, socioeconomic backgrounds, and interests, creating a neutral and inclusive space for diverse communities. 2. Community Interaction Libraries provide opportunities for social interaction, from casual conversations to organized events like book clubs, workshops, and storytime for children. These interactions help build social cohesion. 3. Learning and Exploration Libraries offer free access to books, media, and technology, as well as educational programs. This makes them hubs for personal and intellectual growth, fostering a shared culture of curiosity. 4. Welcoming Atmosphere The quiet and comfortable environment of libraries makes them inviting spaces for relaxation, reflection, and connection-qualities that are often missing in the workplace or home. 5. Free Resources and Services Libraries provide free Wi-Fi, study areas, meeting rooms, and technology, making them valuable for individuals seeking a place to work, study, or collaborate outside of their home or office. 6. Civic Engagement Libraries often host community forums, cultural events, and public discussions, serving as a platform for civic engagement and local collaboration. By fulfilling these roles, libraries act as vital third places, promoting social interaction, community building, and lifelong learning. They encourage a sense of belonging and are often seen as democratic spaces where individuals can engage freely with knowledge and one another.

[@timothykenny]

Great to hear about your library idea. If you ever open it would be great to see some pics and maybe do a tour of it on the channel with you!

[@amyk6403]

I don't know how I found this, but I'm glad I did. Just from the intro, I expected to see more Bibles; one of every translation or one from each manuscript tradition. That's my collection obsession. It's one genre where an amateur can access a reasonably priced, really well-made book. I also look for Michener hard-backs and other series (i.em Jean M Aeul) with sewn bindings and no mold or smoke.

[@timothykenny]

Thansk for watching. What are your favorite Bible editions in your collection?

[@amyk6403]

​​​@@timothykenny Not what one would think. 😂 My favorites are my 1984 NIVs. It's my favorite version of my favorite translation and it's out of print. Ithomk I have 7 of them in various forms. 1. Zondervan 1984 NIV, Thinline printed on Netherlands paper. 2. A niche bible: Paperback. Zondervan 1984 NIV Knowing Jesus Study Bible. It's the most Jesus-y! 3. CSB Holy Land Illustrated Study Bible. Not in the leather, but still gorgeous. 4. Oxford Coronation edition KJV (King Charles.) 5. NET Full-notes edition, not premium but is smythe-sewn with great paper 6. The first Bible I read all the way through: 1984 NIV Paperback Student Bible. I have various iterations of 9 different translations, the Dead Sea Scrolls, and several premium study bibles. Soon, I plan on adding: Lion and Lamb NKJV with art gilding, Artscroll edition of the Tanakh, NJV, Allan or some other premium wide margin.

[@timothykenny]

Thanks that’s some great info. What are your favorite study bibles?

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

I have a very humble religion section but not a lot of bibles. It’s cool that you’ve identified what you’re into!

[@amyk6403]

@@timothykenny 1. ESV Study Bible is a beast. The gold standard. Maybe even TMI. 2. NET Full-notes because the notes discuss the greek/hebrew in such a way that you "get it " even if you don't speak greek or hebrew. 3. NIV Cultural Backgrounds Study Bible. You could cuddle up with it. 4. CSB Study Bible (Decidedly Calvinist and complementarian (I am neither) but still great. OMG the maps! It has paper that you want to pet constantly. Honestly, I think I learn more from interviews/podcasts/lectures of biblical scholars. But, I still use the Study Bibles regularly.

[@Miche-ws2gn]

Lemon essential oil removes stickers from dust jackets with no damage. Awesome library!

[@timothykenny]

Thank you for watching Miche. That is great to know. Seems like sort of a natural alternative to goo gone. Is there a brand or Amazon/other store link you could provide for you use?

[@Miche-ws2gn]

@ it is, and it smells so much better! Any brand works as long as it’s pure essential oil with no base oils mixed in. Health food stores are the best places to find them. Amazon has bigger bottles with glass droppers that are definitely easier to use on books.

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

Great tip. Yeah, I'm not crazy about the commercial goo removers. I'll look into this. Thank you!

[@timothykenny]

I’ve had success with a tiny dab of goo gone on dust jackets with no damage but could have been lick. But would rather use a natural option like you mentioned. Will keep an eye out next time I’m at Whole Foods.

[@BunnyWatson-k1w]

Oxford English Dictionary at 15:19. I used to work in the Archives and Research Collections section of a university library. They had two sets of the OED. One sat in the bookcase of the boardroom untouched for years.

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

That makes me sad! I actually pull mine down about once every two weeks, more if I'm on a literary bender (but not as frequently as I should like). But I also have my smaller dictionary if I don't feel like consulting the phone for a quick answer.

[@timothykenny]

Thanks for your comment Bunny! Unfortunately many people don't understand what the full OED is for or how it's different. I'll be publishing several videos on the OED in it's various iterations in the coming months.

[@justifiedgold]

This video is surprisingly therapeutic. The video equivalent of bedtime reading.

[@timothykenny]

Thanks for watching/listening! Glad to hear about these therapeutic uses. Another commenter suggested in one of my older videos I should read audio books as a narrator. Still haven’t pursued that yet but maybe I should.

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

Glad you like it. Maybe Timothy and I should do another video where we count the books one by one! 😂

[@timothykenny]

With full ddc, lcc and isbn-13s.

[@pileofthoughts]

This place must just smell amazing!

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

I have this one very large leather bound book that sits on the coffee table and radiates a strong scent. I can smell it as soon as I walk in the room. But then sometimes I crack a book while making bread or cookies and the house is infused with the smells of vanilla or dough. Mmm, yeah!

[@timothykenny]

Thanks for watching! I think we will be showing the leather book Greg mentioned in a future video!

[@oelarnes]

No idea how this came across my feed, but I'm enjoying having it on in the background while I work. The collection and conversation suits my tastes perfectly (so far anyway) so thanks KZbin! Per the comment at 1:32:50 about seeing like books together, I've often thought that every single book, essay and article ever written, fiction, opinion or nonfiction, should have a bibliography as a way to share that journey of discovery with the author. Going book by book through a curated library is a pretty good substitute!

[@timothykenny]

Thank you, yes I agree. Nothing like a good annotated bibliography.

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

Glad you like it. I was feeling a bit shy about posting this, so it’s nice to hear your kind thoughts. Thank you!

[@oelarnes]

@@timothykenny The other comment I related to, to paraphrase, "when I was younger I was interested in X, but as I got older I realized that everything is interesting." A blessing and a curse!

[@timothykenny]

That’s a good one. Agreed.

[@johnmacquarrie8430]

I am just starting to build a library. I can only afford one or two books at a time and this exactly what I am striving for. Thank you for posting this!

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

Hey, congrats! You're running into the same problem I did: If you spend money on shelves, you can't spend it on books. Trying to figure out how to do both is a riddle for the Sphinx.

[@timothykenny]

Thanks for watching! What kind of books are your focus right now? Any subjects in particular?

[@johnmacquarrie8430]

@ trying to build a foundation with the classics in the Great Books of the Western World style.

[@timothykenny]

Nice. So are you going to get the whole GBWW set?

[@johnmacquarrie8430]

@@timothykenny I haven’t been able to find a full set that I can afford at the moment. I have had less luck with the Harvard set as well. My plan is to keep looking while checking books out from the library so I can at the very least start reading them. I don’t know how your video popped up in my feed but I’m so glad it did. I subscribed and can’t wait to watch them all! Merry Christmas to you are yours by the way!

[@Yesica1993]

I'm only 50 minutes in but I am loving this so far! If he ever decides to hire someone to dust all the books, I would be open to negotiations...

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

Anyone visiting my library must bring food and good conversation. Dusting is optional.

[@timothykenny]

Thanks for watching!

[@stayathomereader]

I'm watching this (over several days!) and chatting along as if I'm part of the conversations. This has become my emotional support video hahaha. Makes me want to go book shopping unapologetically!

[@timothykenny]

That’s great to hear, glad you enjoyed it! What’s at the top of your to buy list from the vid?

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

I love this--thanks for the kind words. If you get to the point where you're picking between ramen noodles and a book, maybe you've gone too far. But anything before that? You could use another book! LOL

[@stayathomereader]

@timothykenny I definitely feel more encouraged to buy reference books without worrying about when or how much I will read them. I'm currently reading Welcome to Marwencol, which I requested from my library when it came up in the shelf tour

[@stayathomereader]

@@ClassicalLibraryGuy good guidelines for sure!

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

@ Marwencol! I love Mark’s work. It’s horrific what happened to him but I’m ecstatic that’s he done so well since.

[@docoftheworld]

This is the most majest Anti-Library I have seen in my life!!!

[@timothykenny]

Thanks for your comment. For those unfamiliar, from ChatGPT 4o: An antilibrary is a personal collection of books that an individual owns but has not yet read. The term was coined by Nassim Nicholas Taleb in his 2007 book The Black Swan: The Impact of the Highly Improbable. Taleb introduced the concept to highlight the value of unread books, suggesting that they serve as a constant reminder of one’s limitations in knowledge and the vastness of what remains to be learned. He was inspired by the Italian writer Umberto Eco, who maintained a vast personal library filled with numerous unread volumes, viewing them as tools for research and symbols of the unknown. This perspective encourages intellectual humility and continuous curiosity.

[@timothykenny]

I should also note, Eco is one of Greg’s favorite authors and we discuss him and his books in this video.

[@docoftheworld]

@@timothykenny Thank you Mr. Kenny, great explanation. Eco and Borges both were obsessed with libraries and they inspired Carlos Zafon to write his successful novel "shadow of the wind". I had a library of hundreds of books that was completely destroyed during the Syrian Civil War. All that I have left of that library is what is in my mind, memories of better days.

[@ricardocima]

@@timothykenny There's a 60 minutes piece on The Da Vinci Code that has Eco going through his famous library, stoping at a big shelf and saying: "this is where I keep the books that expouse fake theories" LOL

[@timothykenny]

Sorry to hear about your library. You mentioned Borges- he actually came up in this recent interview with Gwern, but he of the most well known anonymous writers on the internet. You can find the video here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/l2WVnJivap6WkLM There is an encyclopedic aspect to their writing that is really interesting, though I’m not sure exactly how to conceptualize its significance.

[@LM-fn6qb]

Thanks for this lovely interview. It reminded me of Helene Hanff and how lovingly she talked about her collection of classics. Just wondering, when you talk about 'shelf' you mean a whole bookcase, and not just a shelf or level within it? Perhaps 'bookcase' is outdated now. Well I appreciated the complete absence of snobbery in the interview, from two very erudite people. Very generous of spirit with the information, even to the cost of the bespoke shelving.

[@LM-fn6qb]

PS. Perhaps you could use a lectern on castors (for somewhere to look at a book you have taken down, 1:08:40).

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

Thanks for the kind words. I won't lump Timothy into my self-disparagement, but I don't feel very erudite. There's SOOO much I still want to learn. If I could, I'd go back to school for about twenty more degrees, and I'd a thousand books a year, etc. And I love your Hanff reference. "84 Charing Cross..." has been tickling the back of my brain for the past couple of years. Maybe now is the time to jump in. What were your thoughts on it? Oh, and to answer your question: I'm not sure what timestamp you're referring to, specifically, but I do use those terms interchangeably. A lot of that is because of how I shelve the books, often running lengthwise across a wall rather than top-to-bottom. There are plenty of reasons for shelving that way, but the simplest explanation is that I used long boards as shelves and didn't want to put dividers in them that would necessitate stopping at an arbitrary point and dropping to the bookshelf beneath. Rather, I kept the shelf running as long as I had board feet left over. (I'm realizing now that what I just wrote only obfuscates my methodology further. LOL Sorry about that!)

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

@@LM-fn6qbI’m actually looking into something like that right now. I have some ideas and might get something custom-built. Thanks for the tip!

[@timothykenny]

Thanks for your comments LM! Great idea w the lecturn. As you know it's good to have an inclined item like this for any library or desk so you don't hurt your neck from prolonged reading while hunched over. For those interested in learning more about Hanff, please see here: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Helene_Hanff

[@ggcruise]

To be surrounded by books ... how completely and totally luxurious.

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

It’s like being in a room with thousands of people smarter than I am.

[@timothykenny]

Thanks for watching! Agreed, a true luxury.

[@scipioafricanus2195]

Amazing! Cool video. Dream library. Need more shelves in my house but always gotta talk wife into expansion haha

[@timothykenny]

Thanks for watching! For those unfamiliar, via ChatGPT 4o: Scipio Africanus (236-183 BCE), also known as Scipio Africanus Major, was a Roman general and statesman best known for his pivotal role in the Second Punic War against Carthage. He earned his title “Africanus” after his decisive victory over Hannibal at the Battle of Zama in 202 BCE, which ended the war and established Rome’s dominance in the Mediterranean. Scipio first gained recognition for his daring and strategic capture of the city of New Carthage (modern Cartagena, Spain) in 209 BCE, showcasing his tactical brilliance and ability to innovate on the battlefield. His strategies often included bold maneuvers and the effective use of Roman infantry and cavalry in combination, reflecting his deep understanding of both Roman and enemy military tactics. In addition to his military successes, Scipio played a significant role in Roman politics. He served as consul twice and was instrumental in shaping Rome’s expansionist policies during the Republic’s rise. Despite his achievements, his later life was marked by political rivalry and accusations of corruption, which led to his voluntary exile. Scipio’s legacy endures as one of Rome’s greatest military commanders, a leader whose vision and tactics set the stage for Rome’s imperial future. His ability to adapt and innovate remains a key study in military history, and his rivalry with Hannibal is often highlighted as one of the great strategic contests of antiquity.

[@timothykenny]

For those interested in learning persuasion via the Classics, these are some suggestions, also from ChatGPT 4o: The Loeb Classical Library is an excellent resource for studying persuasion, particularly in the context of rhetoric, argumentation, and classical thought. Below are some key volumes that focus on persuasion, whether through rhetoric, oratory, or philosophical analysis: 1. Aristotle: Rhetoric • Significance: Aristotle’s Rhetoric is foundational for understanding the principles of persuasion. It introduces the three persuasive appeals: logos (logic), ethos (credibility), and pathos (emotion), as well as techniques for constructing effective arguments. • Why Loeb Edition: The Loeb edition offers both the Greek text and an English translation, making it accessible for readers at different levels. It is particularly useful for exploring the precise terminology Aristotle used. 2. Cicero: De Oratore (On the Orator) • Significance: Cicero’s work is a masterclass in rhetorical theory and practical advice for public speaking. He delves into the skills necessary for effective persuasion, blending philosophy, oratory, and politics. • Why Loeb Edition: The Latin-English parallel format is ideal for studying his language while understanding his rhetorical strategies. 3. Cicero: Orations • Key Speeches: Look for volumes with his Philippics, Pro Archia, or In Catilinam. These are examples of persuasion in action, showcasing Cicero’s techniques in courtroom and political settings. • Why Loeb Edition: These volumes provide both historical context and rhetorical finesse, demonstrating Cicero’s skill in real-world applications of persuasion. 4. Quintilian: Institutio Oratoria (The Orator’s Education) • Significance: Quintilian’s Institutio Oratoria is a comprehensive guide to the art of rhetoric, covering the education of an orator, persuasive techniques, and moral considerations in persuasion. • Why Loeb Edition: The detailed commentary and clear translation make it a valuable resource for teachers and students of rhetoric. 5. Demosthenes: Orations • Significance: Demosthenes, one of the greatest orators of ancient Greece, is a key figure for studying persuasive techniques in political and legal contexts. His Philippics and Olynthiacs are particularly notable for their rhetorical power. • Why Loeb Edition: The Greek-English format provides insights into his use of language, style, and argumentation. 6. Plato: Gorgias and Phaedrus • Significance: These dialogues examine rhetoric and persuasion from a philosophical standpoint. In Gorgias, Socrates critiques rhetoric as a tool for manipulation, while in Phaedrus, he explores the ethical use of persuasion. • Why Loeb Edition: Plato’s nuanced discussion on the morality and methodology of persuasion is complemented by the dual-language format. 7. Isocrates: Works • Significance: Isocrates is less known but equally significant for studying persuasion. His focus on ethical rhetoric and education makes his works a complement to more technical treatments by Aristotle and Cicero. • Why Loeb Edition: This edition provides accessible translations of speeches and essays that emphasize the role of rhetoric in shaping society. Recommendation for Teaching To provide a comprehensive introduction to persuasion: • Start with Aristotle’s Rhetoric for theoretical grounding. • Incorporate Cicero’s De Oratore and Orations for practical applications. • Use Plato’s Gorgias to discuss the philosophical and ethical dimensions of persuasion. • Add Quintilian or Demosthenes for advanced studies in persuasive techniques. This selection gives students a mix of theory, practice, and ethical considerations, showcasing the multifaceted nature of persuasion in classical texts.

[@diamondslashranch]

That is absolutely amazing!

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

Thanks!

[@timothykenny]

Thanks for watching! Hope you’ll tune in for Parts 2&3 and beyond!

[@ForNoOne1981]

Love this home. It looks so cozy.

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

Bring food, stay for late-night convo.

[@timothykenny]

Thanks for watching!

[@Stefan.Arends]

This video was recommended and pushed to me by youtube. I was first a bit hesitant to watch it, because the video is over 9 hours long. But somehow the video sparked my curiosity and I started watching it. The feel and look of the library and passion that this dude has made me watch the video multiple times over again and make notes. I also learned a lot about classical libraries and sorting methods watching this video. And this old dude has inspired me to start my own library in the future.

[@timothykenny]

Thanks for watching! Great to hear that Greg’s library has inspired you. That was one of our main goals in creating this video! Anything specific you took note of?

[@Stefan.Arends]

Yes, looking at Greg's library sparked my interest in folklore and myth. Normally I am mainly interested in reading self-help or psychology books, but I have found that this is quite dry and it is very difficult for me to continue reading it. Lately I've been getting more into fiction and novels, which I'm enjoying a lot more at the moment, but myth and folklore are also interesting topics, which I haven't spent time reading.

[@timothykenny]

Interesting how that has changed. You might like these two articles which I also recommended in a similar comment under this video, copied in full: I bet you will really like Beth Blum's book (she is in the Eng Dept at Harvard): www.thenation.com/article/culture/self-help-compulsion-beth-blum-review/ And this is also good: lithub.com/when-did-self-help-books-become-literary/

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

Since you're so kind with your words, I'll overlook the "old dude" comment at the end. LOL But seriously, I'm glad you found some value and interest in this. It's a dream I've had since I was a kid, and I love being surrounded by so much knowledge. It's like being in a room with a bunch of people who are smarter than you--it elevates you in ways you might not even realize at first. Maybe one day I'll just start speaking in iambic pentameter!

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

@@Stefan.Arends Myth and folklore are so wonderful because they're not just a record of a culture's beliefs, but also its fears, and its desires. A lot of such tales are steeped in values a modern society can't embrace, but they still provide great moments of insight. And who doesn't love the tale of Zeus turning into a swan? Or Baba Yaga flying around in her mortar and pestle? Or Paul Bunyan and his giant axe? What sorts of fiction are you reading these days?

[@cito2820]

Just got my first Dumbarton oaks recently-- old English lives of the saints by Aelfric volume 1. May I be so successful as to have such a beautiful library as this one day!

[@timothykenny]

A good one, you may like my review video on the Dumbarton Oaks series here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/gmeclpxuhKt7hLM

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

I really like the Dumbartons. I think you'll enjoy yours. There are so many good titles from which to choose.

[@ZackSkrip]

The DOs are some of my favorites. Nothing like reading popular-level Byzantine Greek to feel like you actually learned the Language! 😂

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

@@ZackSkrip Yes, but can you use Byzantine Greek to order a mocha latte? LOL Seriously, though, that is very cool. No matter how much we age, we can still find opportunities to learn.

[@timothykenny]

Yea seems like I Tatti and Dumbarton Oaks both have more popular stuff in their collections.

[@philippe-I]

beautiful 🙏🏻 it remembers me to "La biblioteca idela" of the youtuber Jose Maria Bellido Morillas.

[@timothykenny]

Thanks yea there is a great 2h vid on his channel touring the royal library. Rare to see all those kind of bookshelves w the doors and windows.

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

Great tip about Morillas. I'll check him out. Thank you!

[@timothykenny]

Here’s the 2h video I mentioned earlier: kzbin.info/www/bejne/gaLcfX2ApbaNd5I

[@e.l.2734]

So nice!

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

@@e.l.2734 Thank you!

[@neilthehermit4655]

Wow. - So my personal collection of around 1400 science fiction/mystery/thrillers from the 1950's to present, my Dad's 4 or 5 thousand Anthropology, Ethnography, classics and modern fiction from the early 1900's onward, don't even signify! - Honestly I am amazed and not a little jealous. Well done sir !

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

Dude, don't even--your library sounds amazing! Did your dad teach those subjects or was he just into reading about them?

[@neilthehermit4655]

@@ClassicalLibraryGuy He is a retired academic, museum director, University lecturer/director, writer etc.. - A lot of his collection was sold off to make space or generate money for various projects. Still a great collection, I love to wander through it picking up items at random to read. My main passion is classic Sci- Fi, particularly publishing houses like Del Rey, DAW and I was soo lucky around two months ago to find 200 odd at a local charity shop. Two trips to get them all home. Nearly all mint condition. Six months of great reading ahead for me.

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

@@neilthehermit4655 I'm absolutely in awe of this. Obviously, your dad's love of books has struck you as well. Man, I wish we could all instantly travel to each other's home libraries.

[@neilthehermit4655]

@@ClassicalLibraryGuy Oh yes ( I would die happy if I could spend a lifetime in each of the great collections/libraries around the world ). I'm seriously in awe of your collection, and I'm only an hour into the video.

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

@@neilthehermit4655 Thank you. I appreciate it. But if you're only an hour in, then you've got a long ride in front of you, including Parts Two and Three and the AMAs and whatever is coming next. LOL Be sure to let me know if you have any questions. I tried to cover all the bases, but I have little doubt that I missed a bunch of opportunities to dig deeper.

[@ernestintownandjackintheco1024]

I happen to be collecting them all as well 😄. Slowly but surely!

[@timothykenny]

Great to hear. Do you collect anything else besides the Loebs?

[@ernestintownandjackintheco1024]

@@timothykenny books by Tolkien.

[@timothykenny]

Oh cool. I’m guessing Easton Press or Folio Society?

[@ernestintownandjackintheco1024]

@ Folio has some great stuff, but I don't have any of those, at least for Tolkien. I did just receive the three volume Lord of the rings with Alan Lee as the artist (my favorite) and I am pretty sure that is from Easton. They also recently released 4 3-volume sets of the history of middle earth that I just received. That should keep me busy!

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

Then you have great taste. Enjoy, my friend!

[@Narja23]

I love these oxford classics books ❤ i found so many of them second hand! They saved my phd, here in France ❤❤❤ and i'm always happy to see so many books, I just wish you luck should you have to move from one home to another one day! At the end of my phd in European médieval literature (2017-2022) i had a little over 1500 books, and it costed me so much to move the whole thing across the country 😂

[@timothykenny]

Wow it sounds like you have an awesome collection. Please email me at [e-mail] if you’d be interested in giving me a tour of your library! Thanks for watching!

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

I feel your pain. And I adore your degree in Euro Med Lit. I considered similar PhD programs and might just need to suck it up and go back to school. In your case, though, I hope you are young enough that you can make a career from it. Do you have any favorite medieval authors or titles?

[@timothykenny]

Might be good to discuss how you’ve been evaluating PhD programs in a future video. Will add to my AMA questions list.

[@frankshifreen]

GREAT VIDEO- SO GREAT TO SEE SUCH A GREAT LIBRARY

[@timothykenny]

Thank you for commenting and being a subscriber

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

Thank you for the kind words. Something about the scents in a room of books really gets me, you know? Maybe it's the leather, maybe it's the dust. Maybe it's all the knowledge.

[@timothykenny]

.

[@OmnivorousReader]

I have no questions - this is simply awesome and it makes me so happy it see. Thank you for sharing it! The Carmina Burana, my favourite music ever and now I know and must look for them.

[@timothykenny]

Thanks for watching! I will make sure to ask Greg if he has any thoughts to share on Carmina Burana on the AMA.

[@OmnivorousReader]

@@timothykenny I think I will have to google what stories inspired it, since I now know they exist.

[@timothykenny]

Here is what I got from ChatGPT 4o: The Carmina Burana is a collection of medieval Latin poems and songs from the 11th to 13th centuries, discovered in 1803 in a Bavarian monastery. Compiled by an anonymous group of scholars, clerics, and traveling students known as Goliards, the texts cover a wide range of topics, including the unpredictability of fortune, the joys and perils of love, satire of the church and nobility, and the pleasures of drinking and gambling. The name Carmina Burana translates to "Songs of Beuern," a reference to the monastery of Benediktbeuern where the manuscript was found. The collection, now housed in the Bavarian State Library, comprises around 254 poems and is considered one of the largest surviving collections of secular poetry from the medieval period. The Carmina Burana gained widespread fame in the 20th century when German composer Carl Orff set 24 of the poems to music in 1936. Orff's composition, also titled Carmina Burana, is a cantata that features grand orchestral arrangements, powerful choral movements, and stirring solos. The most recognizable section is "O Fortuna," which opens and closes the work, capturing themes of fate’s power and capriciousness. Orff's version is known for its dramatic intensity and has become iconic in popular culture, often used in movies, advertisements, and dramatic sequences to evoke awe and intensity. This musical adaptation brought renewed interest to the original medieval texts, highlighting their timeless themes and artistic depth.

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

Ah, another Orff fan! Welcome, welcome! Be sure to check out the sheet music to Carmina Burana as well. It's amazing. I learned to play some of it years ago, but I'm no musician.

[@OmnivorousReader]

@@timothykenny I am no musician at all - unless you count one year of recorder at school when I was 9 - but the Carmina Burana is exceptional and while I always knew it was based around fragmented poems this video was the first time it ever occurred to me I might be able to get my hands on them and read them.

[@tamaragrottker7677]

Wilkie Collins was a Victorian write who introduced the crime/police genre. He churned out may books including the Woman and White and Moonstone. He was a contemporary of Dickens.

[@timothykenny]

Thanks for your comment. Was this in reference to something in particular Greg said?

[@carolinestagg6807]

Wow!!! What a great book collection !!! I’ve only got four Loeb classics and I feel lucky.

[@timothykenny]

Nice. Thanks for watching! Which ones do you have?

[@carolinestagg6807]

@ I take it back-. Not three. Homer odyssey one and two and Plato, Euthphro to phaedras

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

You're on the right track! And thanks for the kind words.

[@timothykenny]

For those unfamiliar, here’s a set of summaries on the Loebs mentioned via ai: Homer’s Odyssey (Books 1-2) • Loeb Classical Library (LCL 104: Homer: The Odyssey I) The opening books of the Odyssey set the stage for the epic. Book 1 introduces the suitors occupying Odysseus’ home and the gods’ council, with Athena disguising herself to inspire Telemachus to seek news of his father. Book 2 presents Telemachus calling an assembly to confront the suitors, asserting his emerging authority, and preparing to journey to Pylos and Sparta. These books explore themes of generational transition, divine intervention, and the heroic ideal. Plato’s Euthyphro • Loeb Classical Library (LCL 36: Euthyphro, Apology, Crito, Phaedo) In Euthyphro, Socrates encounters Euthyphro at the court and challenges him to define piety as Euthyphro claims to prosecute his own father for impiety. The dialogue critiques several proposed definitions of piety, such as what is pleasing to the gods or what aligns with divine commands, revealing their logical inconsistencies. This work explores themes of religious morality, ethical relativism, and the difficulty of achieving philosophical clarity on universal concepts. Plato’s Apology • Loeb Classical Library (LCL 36: Euthyphro, Apology, Crito, Phaedo) The Apology records Socrates’ defense during his trial, in which he confronts accusations of corrupting the youth and introducing new gods. Socrates argues that his philosophical mission is a divine duty to challenge ignorance and complacency, emphasizing that an unexamined life is not worth living. He defends his actions as a service to the city, even at the cost of his own life, raising profound questions about justice, individual integrity, and the role of philosophy in society. Plato’s Crito • Loeb Classical Library (LCL 36: Euthyphro, Apology, Crito, Phaedo) In Crito, Socrates refuses his friend Crito’s offer to help him escape from prison after being sentenced to death. Socrates argues that escaping would violate his principles, undermine the laws of Athens, and harm the city’s moral order. The dialogue explores themes of justice, the social contract, and the ethical responsibility of citizens to uphold laws, even when they seem unjust. Plato’s Phaedo • Loeb Classical Library (LCL 36: Euthyphro, Apology, Crito, Phaedo) The Phaedo recounts Socrates’ final hours before his death by poison, during which he discusses the immortality of the soul. Socrates presents arguments such as the cyclical argument, the theory of recollection, and the affinity argument to support the soul’s eternal nature. The dialogue also reflects on the philosopher’s readiness to face death, emphasizing the soul’s pursuit of truth and liberation from bodily desires. Plato’s Phaedrus • Loeb Classical Library (LCL 166: Phaedrus, Lysis) In Phaedrus, Socrates and Phaedrus discuss love and rhetoric during a walk outside Athens. Socrates’ speeches explore the concept of divine madness as a form of inspiration in love, contrasting it with self-serving relationships. The dialogue transitions to a discussion on the art of rhetoric, critiquing speeches that prioritize persuasion over truth. Socrates concludes by linking rhetoric to the soul’s pursuit of the good, emphasizing ethical communication and self-knowledge. Plato’s Lysis • Loeb Classical Library (LCL 166: Phaedrus, Lysis) The Lysis centers on a discussion about friendship, focusing on what makes a person a true friend. Socrates examines various hypotheses, including friendship based on mutual benefit, shared virtue, or complementary needs, only to reveal their limitations. The dialogue ultimately leaves the nature of friendship unresolved, inviting reflection on human relationships and the tension between self-interest and altruism. This version provides a detailed overview of each work’s content and major themes, with an emphasis on the intellectual and philosophical contributions of the texts. Let me know if you’d like further elaboration on any specific points!

[@georgeovitt5443]

I have quite a few books--several thousand--nothing like this, of course. Weird though is the contemporary librarian view that "everything is on the internet" and that "deassessing" --that is, throwing books away--is necessary in order to "make room" for all the new stuff. Never get rid of a book because someday you are going to want to read or reread it.

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

Agreed. I don’t know that it’s necessarily the right thing to do for everyone, but I definitely like holding onto books. But I’d say the same to anyone who has a passion for a thing: As long as you’re not hurting anyone, go all in. Bobble heads, books, baseball cards, or bottle caps-it doesn’t matter as long as it fires your heart.

[@timothykenny]

Thanks for watching! Another way to look at it, though-those deaccessioned books turn into the cheap used books on Amazon!

[@timothykenny]

Btw, what kind of books do you focus on in your library?

[@noam65]

This is just incredible! I'm speechless!

[@timothykenny]

Thanks for watching! Glad to hear! Did anything especially stand out for you?

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

I can recommend a few: The Gettysburg address, Hamlet’s soliloquy, MLK’s “I Have a Dream”. Sorry, just some late-night punchy humor. 😊 Thanks for the kind words. And please jump in with questions if you have any!

[@noam65]

@@ClassicalLibraryGuy I have The Great Books collection. My home library is just about 1000 volumes. I haven't room for more. But My tastes include a couple of large works of India. I missed out on Sacred Books of the East, and the Mahabharata and Ramayana, but have them as ebooks. Much of my current library is in eBook form, and in the public domain. If I still read at my book a day rate, I might finish My list by end of life. I'm a child of the sixties. I was a voracious reader for over 40 years. A good portion of my library was donated to a library in the Philippines, some here, many lost.

[@noam65]

@@timothykenny I'm very happy that I stumbled upon your channel yesterday.

[@timothykenny]

Thank you Noam! Glad that you mentioned the Sacred Books of the East. You might like the app ElevenReader for turning your text PDFs into audio books with high quality ai voices. For now it’s free on mobile. Natural Read is another one but voices are lower quality but it’s very solid.

[@earthmama8384]

My very bookish kid would go wild in this fabulous library.

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

Kids are always and especially welcome. My son and his friends like to hang out in there sometimes. Of course, they’re doing more socializing that reading, but I’ll take what I can get. 😊

[@timothykenny]

Thanks for watching! What did you like most about Greg’s library?

[@Comrade_Anka]

Beautiful.

[@timothykenny]

Thank you! Cheers!

[@jma5288]

Fantastic collection of the greek and roman classics. We have a similar collection in Spain called "Biblioteca Clásica Gredos" (422 vol.). Also very expensive to buy new books of it (30€ each)

[@timothykenny]

Thanks for mentioning these. Someone else also mentioned these on one of my other videos. Would be great to find someone with the whole set but will review some volumes soon on the channel.

[@jma5288]

@@timothykenny There is a YT channel called "Only books" that show the slight cheaper version. The standard version in Spain were dark blue hardcovers with golden letters. In that channel you will b are able to see the almost the complete collection, in slight cheaper version (softcover). I think that cheaper version was sold only in South America. The editorial was the same (is called "Gredos"). Gredos also made reduced collections (with around 150 volumes).

[@timothykenny]

Thank you, found the vid for anyone interested: kzbin.info/www/bejne/gaTQiGqDaa6UoNU

[@timothykenny]

Plus he shows some hardcovers of Plato here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/qaizZWibmrt_arM

[@jma5288]

@@timothykenny Yes, exactly

[@catchang8234]

Amazing library. Thank you for sharing

[@timothykenny]

Thanks for watching! Glad you enjoyed the tour!

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

Glad you enjoyed it. I had more fun talking about it than I realized.

[@timothykenny]

Always helps to have the gift of gab!

[@tj-co9go]

Amazing. I wish I could afford it. Both the space and the books. They are out of my grasp monetarily. Luckily I have my city and university library

[@timothykenny]

If you had the space and funds, what would be some of the major books or book sets you would want to have in your collection?

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

I spent years and years and years in libraries. They are amazing. Nothing like finding a comfy chair in a corner, preferably with a window.

[@timothykenny]

Agreed. Time in libraries is especially important to be able to fully appreciate the usefulness of organization systems like DDS and LCC.

[@bubbles1978]

This is a dream!! Congratulations!!

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

Thanks. It's been a dream of mine, too, and has been decades in the making.

[@timothykenny]

Thanks for watching! Did anything in particular inspire you about Greg’s library?

[@cpiacenza]

Wowwwwww what a video.

[@ClassicalLibraryGuy]

Much appreciated!

[@timothykenny]

Thanks for watching! Did anything in particular stand out to you?