I always operated as in my family: in the icebox and later, in the new-fangled refrigerator. Spreading it never seemed to be a problem --maybe we just didn't know any better.
It wasn't until about 1987 when I dated a lady who kept it out all the time that I came across that idea. I expressed my wonderment about that but didn't let it bother me.
I've said this before, might as well again. I haven't had butter in the house for decades. I substitute olive oil now, and lately even olive oil in a spray can, which works pretty good, but is not ideal.
My typical before bed snack is a slice of dark toast with olive oil sprayed on it, then some ginger and cinnamon sprinkled over it, and usually a bit of honey dribbled atop all that, finished off with a short glass of milk.
Terry, 230RN