Bibliomania Day

Bibliomania Day is an annual observance dedicated to bibliomania. In its most extreme form, bibliomania can resemble a compulsive addiction to acquiring books, where people spend excessive amounts of money and, in rare cases, may even commit illegal acts to obtain specific titles. This behavior can overlap with hoarding tendencies and may negatively affect a person’s mental health. Bibliomania Day takes place on March 20.

History

Bibliomania Day is associated with the case of Stephen Blumberg, a notorious book thief who spent years stealing rare books and manuscripts from bookstores, libraries, and museums. On March 20, 1990, he was arrested by the FBI after a friend reported information about him to law enforcement.

Some researchers classify severe bibliomania as a mental health disorder because the urge to acquire books can become a strong compulsion. When a person cannot obtain what they want, they may experience distress, including anxiety or depression.

Interesting Facts

• Stephen Blumberg is often described as one of the most prolific book thieves. Over more than two decades, he stole an estimated 23,000 rare books and around 10,000 manuscripts.
• The total value of the materials Blumberg stole has been reported at about $5.3 million.
• The exact causes of bibliomania are not fully understood. Some psychologists suggest it can function as a coping mechanism that develops in response to stress or difficult life circumstances.

How to Take Part

If you enjoy collecting books, Bibliomania Day can be a good reason to pick up a new title, visit a library, or spend time reading. Consider exploring a genre you do not usually choose, or try an author you have never read before.

You can also share the day on social media and ask others what they are reading or what books they collect.

When is Bibliomania Day in 2026?

Bibliomania Day is observed on March 20 each year.

Observations