Here's what we know:
* A 2013 attempt by the University of Nottingham: A group of students stacked 2,219 books, but unfortunately, the tower collapsed during the Guinness World Record attempt.
* A 2016 attempt by a UK library: A library in the UK successfully stacked 2,075 books, but this was not officially recognized as a world record.
* Numerous smaller attempts: Many individuals and groups have attempted book stacking, with some reaching impressive heights, but without official verification.
Factors affecting book stacking:
* Book size and shape: Uniformity in book size and shape is crucial for stability.
* Book weight: Heavier books tend to be more stable at the base of the stack.
* Stacking technique: The specific method of stacking, including the degree of overlap and alignment, plays a significant role.
* Environmental factors: Wind, vibrations, and uneven surfaces can all contribute to instability.
The difficulty of setting a record:
* Verification: It's difficult to verify the number of books in a stack without disassembling it.
* Safety: Reaching extremely high heights with books can be dangerous.
* Sustainability: The weight and potential damage to books makes it challenging to sustain a record-breaking stack for long periods.
Conclusion:
While there is no official record, it's clear that stacking books to great heights is an impressive feat of engineering and patience. The search for a record continues, and future attempts will likely involve careful planning, meticulous execution, and perhaps some creative solutions to overcome the inherent challenges.