"The true university of these days is a collection of books"
- Thomas Carlyle
About this Quote
Thomas Carlyle's quote, "The real university of these days is a collection of books," highlights the value of reading in the modern-day period. In an age where education has become commercialized and degrees can be bought with money, Carlyle mentions that authentic understanding can just be acquired through reading. He sees the huge collection of books as a bonanza of understanding and knowledge that can enrich the mind and the soul beyond any degree or certification. The true value of education lies not in the certificate, however in the wisdom and understanding got from books. Therefore, we need to focus on reading and broaden our knowledge through the composed word.