---
title: "Meaning & Key Takeaway of: Th' first thing to have in a libry is a…"
description: "\"Th' first thing to have in a libry is a shelf. Fr'm time to time this can be decorated with lithrachure. But th' shelf is th' main thing.\" — Finley Pet..."
image: "https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/db9/finley-peter-dunne-8007_firsts_th-first-thing-to-have-in-a-libry-is-a-s_202166.jpg"
---

#  Th' first thing to have in a libry is a shelf. Fr'm time…

![“Th' first thing to have in a libry is a shelf. Fr'm time to time this can be decorated with lithrachure. But th' shelf is th' main thing.” quote by Finley Peter Dunne](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/db9/finley-peter-dunne-8007_firsts_th-first-thing-to-have-in-a-libry-is-a-s_202166.jpg)   [Download](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/db9/finley-peter-dunne-8007_firsts_th-first-thing-to-have-in-a-libry-is-a-s_202166.jpg) [Open image](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/db9/finley-peter-dunne-8007_firsts_th-first-thing-to-have-in-a-libry-is-a-s_202166.jpg)

> “Th' first thing to have in a libry is a shelf. Fr'm time to time this can be decorated with lithrachure. But th' shelf is th' main thing.”

[Finley Peter Dunne](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/author/finley-peter-dunne/)

## About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Emphasizes that a shelf is the essential component of a library, while other decorations are secondary.

**In simple terms:** Shelves are the core of a library; decorations are optional.

Key Takeaway

Prioritize functional organization before aesthetics.

Themes

library design organization priorities

Mood

thoughtful practical

Type

instructional reflective

When to use this quote

- setting up a personal library
- arranging books in a classroom
- designing a community reading room

Key Concepts

functionality minimalism

Questions to Reflect On

- How can aesthetics enhance, not distract from, functionality?
- What balance works best in your space?

A Different Perspective

Focusing solely on shelves may overlook the value of a welcoming environment.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★   No ratings yet

[Library](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/about/library/) [Time](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/about/time/)

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