I have a different policy. I read a lot, but almost exclusively from the public library (which is very good, here in Copenhagen). If I like a book so much that I expect to read it again at least twice, then I may buy a copy. Last time I moved, I gave over half of my books away.
This. That's basically what I do too, with a small difference. First off: I usually keep all my text and non-fiction books, but I gave away most fiction. It doesn't matter if I bought it or got it from a public library. A lot of them just go back into another public library or just in front of my doorsteps for people to take em.
There are just some all time classics and fiction that struck me the right way at the right time, but I won't read most fiction a second time, so why keep em?
for those who haven't heard, Libby is an app that lets you borrow books (epub and audio) from your local library using a library card (in the US, can't verify other countries). it's' super easy and you can add multiple library cards to access several systems. completely free.
I’m fortunate in that I live a few hundred feet from a branch library with access to an awesome inter-library loan program.
To me, the ability to pick up a book and just start reading is amazing. Also, my wife is excellent at picking books for me, (better than me!) so it’s a sort of family activity.
