I don't think that really works with large leather bound books, especially in low light. Three rows of three [vellum] books on a table: You're looking at lifti

I don't think that really works with large leather bound books, especially in low light. Three rows of three [vellum] books on a table: You're looking at lifting a several kilogram book at a stretch of 60-80cm (quartos are about 30cm tall) ... my reach is only ~60cm (at ~175cm of height). I think what you're proposing is far less convenient than you're imagining. Especially working from candlelight (in UK most people would have used animal fat lamps at this time, I gather; but if you could afford 8 books I'm guessing you could afford proper candles).