A book wants to be read - A weekend among books in Vestmannaeyjar

Last weekend we visited Vestmannaeyjar on the invitation of Kári, head librarian and curator of the island’s rare book collection. From the moment I stepped into the special collection room, I was captivated - shelves lined with all eleven Icelandic Bible translations gathered together, early printed volumes, delicate bindings, and modern editions, a very special and rare sighting. These eleven Bibles are more than religious texts; they trace the history of Icelandic language, printing, and faith itself.

Ari from the Reykjavík bookstore Bókin helped track down several of the rarest copies of the collection, including the great Guðbrandsbiblía (1584) . Holding these centuries-old books felt like touching Iceland’s linguistic and spiritual heritage.

Kári pointed out a small, moving detail, the “thumbprints” left by generations of readers. Along the edges of the pages, the paper has darkened where countless thumbs once turned the leaves. “Books want to be touched and used,” he said. “They live longer that way.” He explained how he gently turns the pages of the oldest volumes each month so they don’t stiffen or stick together - a beautiful act of care that keeps them alive.

Later, over dessert at his home, Kári showed us parts of his private collection. Each book came with a story, how it was found, restored, or nearly lost. Surrounded by those shelves, it felt like stepping into a living archive.

For a small island community, the dedication behind this collection and library is remarkable.

As we walked back through the quiet streets of the Island, under a sky full of stars, I felt very grateful — to Kári, to Ari and to everyone who keeps books alive. If you ever find yourself in Vestmannaeyjar, visit Bókasafn Vestmannaeyja. Ask to see the rare collection - it’s a window into Iceland’s soul.