I feel strongly about this... I started out as a self taught decorative artists..Learning mostly from all of my books and one great message board, such as this one... I booked my first job before actually ever taking my first class..Of course, I then started in with the schools..
And now I'm learning quilting...I will never throw my books away( except the ones I'll never use-don't care for)....I have a really nice reference library...You never know when someone will ask/pay you to do that bargello quilt you've never actually done...But, between your stashed books and this board, you'll be ready lol