The Library
A World History
Published on 14. October 2013
Book
Hardback
328 pages
978-0-500-34288-6 (ISBN)
Description
This spectacular book is the first single volume to tell the story of the library as a distinct building type, all around the world. Throughout the ages, book collections have served to symbolize their owners' culture and learning, and the wealthy and powerful have spent lavishly on buildings to house them. In its highest form the library became a total work of art, combining painting, sculpture, furniture and architecture into seamless, dramatic spaces. The finest libraries are repositories not just of books, but of learning, creativity and contemplation; they embody some of the highest achievements of humankind. This book recounts that history in text and images of truly outstanding quality.
Reviews / Votes
'A fascinating read for anyone who appreciates books and the beautiful buildings they're housed in' - Elle Decoration 'A glorious study' - Sunday Telegraph 'In a lavish tribute to the architecture of libraries, the culture of learning and our ever-changing relationship with the written word from ancient to medieval modern, this great book is itself a rich library' - Saga MagazineMore details
Language
English
Place of publication
London
United Kingdom
Illustrations
17 Illustrations, black and white; 275 Illustrations, color
Dimensions
Height: 308 mm
Width: 240 mm
Weight
2310 gr
ISBN-13
978-0-500-34288-6 (9780500342886)
Copyright in bibliographic data and cover images is held by Nielsen Book Services Limited or by the publishers or by their respective licensors: all rights reserved.
Schweitzer Classification
Persons
Dr James Campbell, an architect and art historian, is Seear Fellow in Architecture and History of Art at Queen's College, Cambridge. His books include The Library: A World History and Brick: A World History, both published by Thames & Hudson. Will Pryce, a trained architect and award-winning photographer, is the author of six books, all published by Thames & Hudson.
Content
Preface; Introduction * 1. Lost Beginnings - Libraries in the Ancient World * 2. Cloisters, Codices and Chests - Libraries in the Middle Ages* 3. Cupboards, Chains and Stalls - Libraries in the Sixteenth Century * 4. Walls, Domes and Alcoves - Libraries in the Seventeenth Century * 5. Angels, Frescoes and Secret Doors - Libraries in the Eighteenth Century * 6. Iron Stacks, Gas Lights and Card Catalogues - Libraries in the Nineteenth Century * 7. Electricity, Concrete and Steel - Libraries in the Twentieth Century * 8. The Future of Libraries in the Electronic Age