The Power of Books in our Sanctuary

I might have mentioned my deep love for books. It borders on obsession at times. When COVID hit and my husband Philip and I were at home together, we realized we could be locked in our home for 10 years and probably never read all of the books we have collected. Embarrassing? Maybe. Abundant? Decidedly.

My passion for books has only grown over time. To me, books are sacred objects: powerful portals that open us to new worlds, deeper ideas, and broader perspectives. Whether we’re reading stories of history, science fiction, or studies of the human brain, we expand our understanding of both others and ourselves. They are companions, teachers, and sources of infinite inspiration.

Last fall, during the October High Point Market, I had the privilege of visiting the Bernice Bienenstock Furniture Library in North Carolina- a place that is truly unique. With more than 5,000 furniture and design-specific volumes, it’s the largest furniture specialty library in the world. It also houses rare books dating back to 1543, including original works by Chippendale, Sheraton, and Hepplewhite, and a full 26-volume set of Diderot’s Encyclopedia from 1776.

Are you kidding me? Goosebumps.

Wandering the shelves with white gloves on, I was in awe. The embossed leather covers, the delicate gold detailing, the fragile weight of history in my hands—it was humbling and deeply moving. These books are more than just references; they’re repositories of knowledge, memory, and meaning. The library also houses intricate drawings and furniture details, offering endless inspiration to the design industry.

Given this long-standing reverence for books, you can imagine how honored I was when the team at Bienenstock invited me to join their board after my visit.

This extraordinary institution is one of the few places in the world where design professionals, scholars, students, and the public can physically engage with the original works of our industry’s early visionaries. The energy in the space is palpable- ensouled, even. I’ve spoken before about the idea of ensouled objects: the notion that the things we surround ourselves with can carry spirit, memory, and presence. These historic volumes are a perfect example. They bear the imprint of generations of hands and minds, and simply standing among them, you feel their quiet, powerful legacy.

Can you imagine the tales they could tell if they could speak?!

Of course, I said yes to the board position. I’m truly excited about the opportunity to support the library and help spotlight its value as a living, breathing sanctuary of design history. (And nevermind my early childhood fantasy of becoming a librarian – TRUTH).

If you’re curious to experience it yourself, I’ll be speaking at the Bienenstock Future Designers Summit this September. This inspiring event will bring together students and professionals in furniture, textiles, interior design, architecture, and product design. Through thought-provoking seminars and collaborative events, emerging creatives will gain insights and connections to elevate their work and their creative potential.

I’ll share more details as the date approaches, but in the meantime, I’d love to hear from you: Have you ever been to the Bienenstock Library? Do you have a favorite historical design resource- perhaps an heirloom, a treasured book, or a favorite museum exhibit- that inspires your work? Let me know in the comments. I’d love to hear.

With love and gratitude,

Lisa