Book-Plates

"Book-Plates" by William John Hardy is a journey through the world of book-plate collecting, written in the late 1800s, where the author explains why collecting book-plates is an understandable, good hobby. Hardy talks about how book-plates have changed over time all the way up to the book's current time and says they are artistically valuable. It discusses the ethical considerations surrounding book-plate collecting while including information about the different styles and reasons behind these owner's marks in books. Hardy starts by defending book-plate collecting, as an acceptable and logical hobby. He mentions he has always been interested and shares the increasing numbers of collectors. The book also touches on how book-plate collecting grew in England, mentioning a lack of books about it before the 1880s. Hardy emphasizes how to handle them properly and organize them, promising a mix of historical analysis and tips for collectors.