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Charles Dickens, Father of Modern Christmas

By Kristin Masters. Dec 25, 2012. 1:50 AM.

Topics: Rare Books, Charles Dickens

Today families around the world gathered around a Christmas tree to open gifts. This tradition seems as old as the holiday itself, but in reality these practices—and many others—are relatively new inventions. And Charles Dickens can be credited with introducing or popularizing some of our favorite elements of the Christmas holiday

     
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Who's Who: Rare Book Collecting Edition

So Thomas Jefferson, Johnny Depp, and Yoko Ono walk into a book fair...

Have a punchline? Suggest it in the "Comments" section below. But what do all these people have in common? They're all noted rare book collectors. That's right: this pastime isn't just for bookworms and librarians! Here's a look at some of the most famous collectors of rare books.      
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Prepare for Holiday Travel with Tales of Adventure

By Kristin Masters. Dec 19, 2012. 6:17 AM.

This holiday season, many of us will be traveling to see family and loved ones. Perhaps you're heading to a warmer locale, where you can thaw out for a bit, or maybe you're going north to enjoy a white Christmas. Either way, these holiday travels can turn into unexpected, er, adventures. As you prepare for your own expeditions, draw some inspiration from these fearless explorers and survivalists.

     
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Collecting Authors' First Books

By Kristin Masters. Dec 13, 2012. 5:05 AM.

Topics: Legendary Authors, Book Collecting, Literature

In the world of rare books, we talk frequently about firsts. Indeed, the novice collector very quickly learns the terms “first edition” and “first printing.” These descriptors often significantly increase the value of a book. But another important, and quite interesting, concept of firsts is that of authors' first works.Often exceedingly rare, an author's first work may cost much more than the later works that actually catapulted the author to greatness.
     
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Holiday Books for Readers of All Ages

By Kristin Masters. Dec 12, 2012. 5:34 AM.

Topics: Children's Books, Rare Book Gift Ideas

Clement Clarke Moore forever changed our Christmas traditions with his iconic poem, A Visit from St Nicholas, now better known as The Night before Christmas. Thanks to Moore, Christmas became a more child-centered holiday, with gifts and goodies for the younger generation.

     
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Banned Books that Revolutionized Literature

By Kristin Masters. Dec 7, 2012. 3:15 AM.

Topics: Book Collecting, Literature

On December 7, 1933 the United States lifted its ban on James Joyce's Ulysses. Federal Judge John M. Woolsey presided over the Supreme Court case. After taking a month to read the book, Justice Woolsey said that the book was not only not obscene, but was also a work of literary merit. 

     
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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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