I hate painted wood, particularly cabinets, so I would not paint them. However, I do not live in your house. If you are going to be there awhile, then feel free to paint them. Many people hate oak and would consider painting the shelves more desirable.

I would not say no one wants medium oak. I have actively selected houses with medium oak cabinetry (including my current one) and have not purchased homes solely because oak cabinetry had been painted. With that said, I am still of the opinion you should have your shelves painted if you want them painted.

Paint them,. I think it would make your house more appealing to a greater percentage of buyers for resale (at least in my area), besides, bottom line is you'd prefer painted.

i'd paint the surround and flanked bookcases but leave the kitchen cabinets alone. the only thing i dislike more than medium oak cabinets is medium oak cabinets that have been painted and have the paint chipped off from normal useage. the fireplace/bookcases won't have nearly so much wear and tear as the kitchen.

Paint and I would also do the kitchen it will have a positive impact on resale IMO but I have to admit I really hate oak but I think a white kitchen is always timeless