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Happy Birthday, Harper Lee!

By Kristin Masters. Apr 27, 2012. 4:37 AM.

Topics: Book Collecting, Literature

Tomorrow is the birthday of Pulitzer Prize winning author Harper Lee. The reclusive author of To Kill a Mockingbird will be 86 years old.  Though Lee published only one novel, this single book proved one of the seminal works of the twentieth century—and one of the most controversial.

     
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Much Ado about Shakespeare

By Kristin Masters. Apr 26, 2012. 5:18 AM.

Topics: Book Collecting, Literature

You may have noted quite a bit of chatter about the Bard this week, and with good reason. Shakespeare died on April 24, and his birthday is traditionally celebrated the same week.  In Shakespeare’'s 52 years, he authored some 38 plays, over 150 sonnets, two long narrative poems, and many other shorter pieces. He is often lauded as the world’s preeminent writer in the English language.

     
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Assessing the Value of Your Rare Books

By Kristin Masters. Apr 17, 2012. 12:40 AM.

Topics: Rare Books, Book Collecting

It’s about that time: Tax day has arrived, and US citizens owe the Internal Revenue Service an account of all their assets and income. What better day to explore how we assess the value of our rare books? If you’ve recently purchased a book, you may have a pretty firm grasp of what it’s worth. But several factors can impact your book’s value.

     
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Tom Clancy: Author, Investor, and...Insurance Agent?

By Kristin Masters. Apr 12, 2012. 6:15 AM.

Topics: Book Collecting, Literature, Modern First Editions

Today marks the 65th birthday of Tom Clancy! The author of countless action novels has inspired movies, video games, and even other writers. Best known for his tales of scientific thrillers, military science, and espionage, Clancy has gained significant recognition both in the US and abroad.

     
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Visit Us at the New York Antiquarian Book Fair

By Kristin Masters. Apr 10, 2012. 5:26 AM.

Topics: Book Collecting, Book News

We're excited to take Books Tell You Why on the road this week! We're heading to the 52nd Annual New York Antiquarian Book Fair at the Park Avenue Armory, April 12 - 15. Stop by Booth #A-22 to peruse our offerings.

     
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New Arrivals: Fine Press from Heavenly Monkey

By Kristin Masters. Apr 5, 2012. 5:40 AM.

Topics: Fine Press, Book Collecting, Rare Book Gift Ideas

We’re proud to present Occupied by Colour, the third in Heavenly Monkey’s color series. This fine press book goes beyond the two-dimensional page, truly engaging the reader with constructions, movements, and models.
The  color project  began in 2007, when Heavenly Monkey’s Barbara Hodgson (author, artist, and book designer) and Claudia Cohen (professional bookbinder) decided to explore their shared passion for color.
     
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Rare Book Collecting Lessons from the World of Golf

By Kristin Masters. Apr 2, 2012. 5:03 AM.

Topics: Book Collecting


The Masters Tournament in Augusta, Georgia brings together golfing legends and exceptional newcomers to the sport. The tradition and prestige of the tournament are often reflected in the books dedicated to golf. Meanwhile, golf remains an incredibly accessible activity for people with varying backgrounds and levels of expertise--—much like collecting rare books. Book collectors can learn a few lessons from the game of golf!

     
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About this blog

How can I identify a first edition? Where do I learn about caring for books? How should I start collecting? Hear from librarians about amazing collections, learn about historic bindings or printing techniques, get to know other collectors. Whether you are just starting or looking for expert advice, chances are, you'll find something of interest on blogis librorum.

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