> The man combined his hobby with his profession and is now retiring a millionaire.

Worth noting that the £1.5 million valuation is in the ball park of what the building is worth on it's own.

I think the parent's point is that while the collecting itself can be very rewarding it's far from guaranteed anyone else will find value in the collection. It does feel a shame to dispose of such a piece of work, but the real value is likely more in the collector than the collection.

The article mentions he spends six months per year in the Philippines. Doesn't sound like someone oppressed and impoverished by his book obsession.

Yes, it's entirely possible he may loved every minute!

I don't know if the fact he's financially successful affects my read though. It's certainly obvious he had money but unfortunately I don't think the money precludes an unhealthy obsession. Infact it might make it worse.