Myst Island -- The building with the pillars

On one of the walls there is a bookcase with a lot of books. Can I read them? Maybe they'll tell me something.

There is also some paintings. What are they for? can I touch them?

There is a map of the an island. What island?

There are some colored books on the shelves with the colored pages? Can I read the books?

Lastly, there is a fireplace. Hmmm. Seems innocent enough...or is it?