What is the use of books in Oblivion aside from the Skill Books?

[Eojinlim]

Does anyone know the usefulness of the books you can find and read in Oblivion? Is it just to provide lore and history of the provinces and to provide very basic instructions and information regarding alchemy, etc?

 

Are there certain random books that you can find which talks about ancient legendary weapons from which you can try and find, primarily based on the books that you find?

 

Please educate me!

[ninja_lord666]

There are two types of books: skill books and lore books. That's it.

[Rhydderch Hael]

...Are there certain random books that you can find which talks about ancient legendary weapons from which you can try and find, primarily based on the books that you find?

 

Please educate me!

There is one book that lists some Daedric artifacts and otherworldly treasures (some which you will see in the game, but some that you won't) but provides no real clue as how to acquire them, aside from tellin you which Daedric prince favors the item (and might gift you it if you complete the quest from their shrine).

 

Aside from that, its mainly background information that doesn't directly affect questing. Some quests require that you pick up a few books along the way, but also provides some direction in acquiring them (you will not have to rely on random looting or exploring to advance the quests— someone will point the way).

[10111010]

Yes i find some books are fun to read. Not to go off topic but there was a book in morrowind named "Unamed Book" it was a story about a robbery with a gang of thieves. One thief ran away with the gold (surprise there). I wont spoil the rest remember reading is fun!