What was Sai Baba's perspective on collecting spiritual texts, and what purpose did he intend for them?

Although Sai Baba himself was completely detached from all objects, he encouraged the collection of certain holy books for the benefit of his devotees. Chapter 27 explains that his actions, such as giving the Bhagavata to Shama and another copy to Kaka Mahajani, had a long-term purpose. The narrator suggests that Baba foresaw Shirdi becoming a major holy place where devotees from various countries would gather for knowledge sessions. These collected books, like the Bhagavata and Vishnu Sahasranama, were to be preserved in the records and serve as holy "images" and reminders of Sai. They were not for Baba's personal use, but were gathered as a sacred legacy for the spiritual welfare of his followers.