"I would be the most content if my children grew up to be the kind of people who think decorating consists mostly of building enough bookshelves"

Anna Quindlen's quote speaks to the value of education and knowledge. She is revealing her desire for her children to mature to be individuals who value books and reading. She thinks that bookshelves are the most essential type of design, as they are a sign of understanding and knowing. She is suggesting that bookshelves need to be the focus of any house, as they signify intelligence and wisdom. By having bookshelves in the home, it motivates children to check out and discover, which is something that Quindlen values extremely. She desires her kids to be educated and experienced, and she thinks that bookshelves are the best way to attain this. Quindlen's quote is a suggestion of the significance of education and understanding, and how bookshelves can be a sign of this.