Saturday, October 13, 2012

Of Books

Today was one of the two fall book sales, and, of course, I took the little boys.  They got some books.  I, having pledged to not buy any more books because my shelves are on overload, only bought about 6.  One of them, which will be next on my "To Read" list, because it was recommended by Mango Momma, had markings indicating some of its history; I added our family library seal.

So, where do you fall on the marking of the ownership of books?  I know it's considered "damage" and "lowers the resale value" of the books.  But, really?  Do you think there is much resale value in books?   Take this set of books from the late 1880s.  The covers are nice, padded and worked, but the spines are in various stages of faded and worn.  Still, they're pretty books, which  is why I bought them.

But when I found inscriptions like this one inside, I just found them irresistible.  It makes me feel a little bit connected to the history of the books.  Someone gave these to his (wife or daughter or sister) nearly 130 years ago.  It doesn't matter who they were; the knowledge that these were selected with love makes them more special.

Am I alone in loving to see ownership markings inside the flyleaves of books?

12 comments:

pam said...

I love, love, love to read inscriptions in old books. I don't mark on my books because I all I ever wanted was a cool bookplate, and since I don't have one, no marks.

SissySees said...

I have had bookplates, but like Pam, am still in search of the PERFECT one, so books rarely get marked.

Back when the League had Literary Feast as a fundraiser, books were signed every year, and I have a few that were gifted with inscriptions; I consider them priceless.

STELLA and RORY from Down Under said...

Hi Marjie, you can't beat an old book for beauty. The feel, and smell are unique. I love the old inscription. I have bought old books just because I like the feel of the cover or just the look of it. I love my kindle but I'll always love a book to hold the best. No worries, and love, Carol

Dexter said...

I usually put the date of purchase in my books. I love getting my hands on a book with some history to it.

Mango Momma

Diane said...

Not alone at all, I have bought a number of books that have dates way back that are either presents or prizes at school. It just makes them so much more interesting. Take care Diane

Sue said...

While doing my genealogy research I bought a family history on Ebay. I was delighted to discover that someone and stuck letters and newspaper clippings between the pages as well as making family notes. What a treasure!

Pam said...

I love old books. What beautiful handwriting on that inscription.

Anonymous said...

What beautiful handwriting. I'm totally with you -- I find value in the personal touches.

Jan Mader said...

Forget the Nooks and Kendles...give me an old book anytime!

Blond Duck said...

I love old books, esp. when old notes or bookmarks fall out.

Gloria Baker said...

I love old books!

Dexter said...

I just got a book from the library with a grocery and "to do" list tucked away inside. I think I'll add my own comments and leave it there for the next borrower.

Mango Momma