Fairly self explanatory when you think about it. 'Virtual Books' assist in the immersion factor that the game holds for information and knowledge about its world. The more you read, the more of the Faerun Mythos and trivia and history about the surrounding areas within Icewind Dale is revealed. Whether it be about its inhabitants, a history of a certain conflict or a legend of some kind, the books provide a way to break up the general hack and slash monotony of the game. [img]smile.gif[/img]
They're good stuff to browse when you're just kicking back in a tavern or something.
However, I don't think they are implemented quite as well as they are in the BG series and also in particular, the Ultima series.
Ultima 7 is one game I always remember fondly when it comes to setting the standard of virtual RPG game world interaction and the books of its world are some of my all time favourites mostly because of the humour and philosophy they wonderfuly weave. [img]smile.gif[/img]
Anyway, I'd reccomend you keep an eye out for them and try to be aware of relevant names and places for certain quests. You'll be glad you did.
Cheers,
Cerebrodragon