Book Ownership in Stuart England

This book explores the development and importance of private libraries and book ownership through the seventeenth century, based on evidence from thousands of books and a list of over 1,300 known owners. It considers evolution, contents, size, and motives for book ownership, including by women and non-professional households. It also advances methodologies for book history and challenges received wisdom around priorities and terminology. The list of owners in the Appendix makes it a valuable reference work.

Format: Hardback
Length: 352 pages
Publication date: 28 January 2021
Publisher: Oxford University Press

This comprehensive volume explores the evolution and significance of private libraries and book ownership throughout the seventeenth century, drawing upon a diverse range of evidence, including the examination of thousands of books and a comprehensive list of over 1,300 known owners from various backgrounds. It delves into questions of book ownership's development, content, size, and motivations, considering the changing markets for both new and second-hand books during this period. The book also examines the prevalence of book ownership among women and non-professional households, shedding light on their roles in shaping the book-owning culture. Additionally, it explores the balance between books for practical use and display, the relationship between libraries and museums, and the diverse cultures of collecting. While presenting a wealth of information in this field, the volume also advances methodologies for book history and utilizes extensive material evidence, such as bookbindings. It challenges prevailing notions about the priorities of studying private libraries and the appropriate terminology to use. Furthermore, the detailed list of owners included in the Appendix makes this book a valuable resource for scholars and researchers, as well as a lasting reference work in the field of book history.

Weight: 736g
Dimension: 165 x 242 x 30 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780198870128