Meaning of the word "a book, tight shut, is but a block of papers" in English

What does "a book, tight shut, is but a block of papers" mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

a book, tight shut, is but a block of papers

US /ə bʊk, taɪt ʃʌt, ɪz bʌt ə blɑːk əv ˈpeɪpərz/
UK /ə bʊk, taɪt ʃʌt, ɪz bʌt ə blɒk əv ˈpeɪpəz/
"a book, tight shut, is but a block of papers" picture

Idiom

a proverb meaning that a book is useless if it is not read or opened

Example:
Remember that a book, tight shut, is but a block of papers; you must read to learn.
Don't just collect them on the shelf; a book, tight shut, is but a block of papers.