Q:

Is there a use for every item in Skyrim?

Can every item in Skyrim be used for something? I find a lot of objects like ruined books, embalming tools, etc. that I haven't found a use for yet.

A:

If you can pick it up, you probably need it.

  —  Holkins, Jerry; Krahulik, Mike (November 14, 2011). "Thulsa Broom". Penny Arcade.

But seriously? Unless it has no interesting value, leave them be. You'll get one when you need one.

A:

Some items that seem useless at first do have a hidden use. 

 For example, ruined books can be used to create summon Atronach spell tomes

A:

Once you learn Telekenesis you can 'use' all objects as projectiles.

