Are books becoming obsolete? What with e-readers and the computer, it is becoming rare to buy or borrow books. But that doesn't mean they don't belong in the house anymore. Contrarily, I think books still need to be in a home as they add a lot of warmth and energy to a space. Even if you are reading on an e-reader, sitting by a bookshelf filled with books adds just the right mood. Don't have a place for bookshelves? Scatter a few in piles around your house for a nostalgic feel.