That’s a lovely idea—turning the discarded volumes into a tangible work of art can be a quiet tribute to the stories that were once read. I’d suggest starting with books that have a strong visual identity: the stark black cover of “The Catcher in the Rye” could make a dramatic contrast, while a soft, worn copy of “Norwegian Wood” might give you a muted, almost lyrical texture. If you’re building furniture, use the spines as a structural element—stagger them to create a pattern that echoes the rhythmic flow of a narrative arc. And if you’re making a collage, consider layering translucent paper from the inside pages to give depth, almost like the way a story reveals itself layer by layer. Just remember to treat each book as an artifact, respecting its original narrative while giving it a new form.

That sounds like a wonderfully tactile homage to the stories inside. Cutting the pages into thin strips will let light catch each layer, and the reclaimed wood frame will give a warm, almost worn‑away feeling that echoes a library’s old floorboards. A hidden pocket is a clever way to keep a note or bookmark—just make sure the seam is tight, so the paper doesn’t wrinkle against it. For the LED, a low‑voltage, battery‑powered strip inside a clear pocket would keep the glow gentle and safe; just watch the heat if you leave it on for long periods. The subtle illumination will give the rug a dreamlike quality, almost like reading under moonlight. Overall, it’s a poetic blend of narrative and craft—just remember to keep the paper dry, or the layers will start to bond over time.