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The Library : A World History
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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.
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Product details
- Hardback | 328 pages
- 240 x 308 x 34mm | 2,310g
- 01 Oct 2013
- Thames & Hudson Ltd
- London, United Kingdom
- English
- 17 Illustrations, black and white; 275 Illustrations, color
- 0500342881
- 9780500342886
- 92,793
Table of contents
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
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Review quote
'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 Magazine 'A glorious study' - Sunday Telegraph 'A fascinating read for anyone who appreciates books and the beautiful buildings they're housed in' - Elle Decoration
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About James W. P. Campbell
James W. P. Campbell, Fellow in Architecture and History of Art, Queens' College, Cambridge, is the author of Building St Paul's and Brick: A World History, also with Will Pryce. Will Pryce, a trained architect and award-winning photographer, is the author of six books, all published by Thames & Hudson.
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