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blogis librorum. A blog about books. Rare books.
Did you know? Check our Rare Books Page

Kristin Masters
Master Content Brain. You think it, she writes it, no good thought remains unposted. Sprinkles pixie dust on Google+, newsletters, blog, facebook, twitter and just about everything else.

Recent Posts:

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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The Dalai Lama: Leader, Peacemaker, and Author

By Kristin Masters. Mar 27, 2012. 3:14 AM.

Topics: Rare Books, Book Collecting, History

In March 1959, the people of Tibet were in revolt, rallying for independence from China. But the Chinese government squashed the revolt. The Dalai Lama fled his country and sought refuge in India, where he has resided ever since. Jump forward about fifty years, to March 2011: the Dalai Lama officially announced his retirement as the head of the Tibetan government.      
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New Arrival Spotlight: Shanty Bay Press Books

By Kristin Masters. Mar 22, 2012. 4:19 AM.

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

Fine press books have remained popular among rare book collectors since the genre emerged in the late nineteenth century. William Morris, who came up with the concept of fine press, wanted to recall the “golden days” of printing and publishing. Fine press books embody artistic taste and beauty.

     
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Hidden Gems of Children's Literature

Ever hear of “The Turnip Princess”? This unlikely fairy tale is one of over 500 recently discovered in Germany. Compiled by Franz Xaver von Schönwerth in the mid-1800’s, the stories have been locked away in an archive for over 150 years.

Though “The Turnip Princess” may not be the next “Cinderella,” the stories certainly represent hidden gems of cultural history and illustrate the rich tradition of the fairy tale. The canon of children’s literature and folklore are always evolving; our canon will soon undoubtedly include several outstanding authors and illustrators, most notably Charles van Sandwyk.

Charles van Sandwyk'’s Exceptional Illustrated Literature

     
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Happy Birthday, Gabo!

Today is the 85th birthday of legendary author Gabriel García Márquez. The Nobel laureate began his writing career as a journalist but established himself as one of the most important authors of the twentieth century. Here’s a look at a few facts you probably didn’t know about Gabriel García Márquez.

     
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An Interview with David Bruce Smith

By Kristin Masters. Feb 29, 2012. 5:27 AM.

Topics: Book Collecting, Rare Book Gift Ideas

Books Tell You Why is proud to introduce David Bruce Smith. He specializes in creating, designing, and writing limited-edition books on a variety of subjects: authors, historic figures, artists, and leaders. You’ll find his books Tennessee: Three Plays by Tennessee Williams and Thirteen Miles from Providence: A Tale of Abraham Lincoln and the Soldiers’ Home featured on our website. David recently sat down with us to discuss his inspiration, working with his mom, and even his thoughts on e-books.

     
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Movie Tie-Ins: Books Win Big at the Oscars!?

By Kristin Masters. Feb 27, 2012. 5:02 AM.

Topics: Caldecott Medal, Movie Tie-Ins

Last night America reveled in an evening of glamour and excitement. The annual Academy Awards ceremony honored the best cinematic achievements of the year. Book-to-movie adaptations featured prominently this year, and a few really won big.

     
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Preserving Your Rare Books: Setting up and Maintaining Your Home Library

As a collector of rare books, your goal is to keep your collection in optimum shape. You’re careful with dust jackets and protect fragile books with clamshell cases. Even the way you shelve your rare books can impact their condition. It’s important that your home library provides the support and protection that rare books need.

Umberto Eco could use a few of these tips in his personal library!      
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"Hugo" Earns 11 Academy Award Nominations

By Kristin Masters. Jan 25, 2012. 2:30 AM.

Topics: Caldecott Medal, Children's Books, Movie Tie-Ins

The nominations are in, and “Hugo” tops the list with 11 Academy Award  nominations. The film, directed by Martin Scorsese, earned nominations for best film and best director. It is one more example of books’ inspiring movies we love!

     
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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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