The Library: A World History by Campbell, James W. P.; Will Pryce (Photographer) - 2013

London: Thames & Hudson. New in New dust jacket. 2013. Second Edition. First Printing. Hard Cover. 0500342881 . Publisher's full black cloth, gilt lettering on spine, floor-plans on endpapers. Lavishly illustrated with 299 Illustrations, 282 in color. This is the updated second edition (2013) with seven new images and three new sections. 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. . Both the volume and the unclipped dust jacket are in perfect, pristine condition. This is a large and heavy book - additional shipping charges may be necessary. NEW/NEW.. Color Photographs. 4to 11" - 13" tall. 328 pp .