Blow away the dust

Last month my local library held its annual book sale. You may remember that I posted about this event last year. The pickings this time around were incredible. It was sweltering under the summer sun browsing through boxes and combing over tables, but oh so worth it. I came away with so many beautiful bindings, illustrations, engravings and a few little inscriptions nearly 80 years old. Here have a look:

The Oxford Book of English Verse 1250 - 1900, Impression of 1930

Within my own book collection I seem to be amassing a sub-collection of Oxford Books of English Verse. I felt compelled to buy this little volume not only for its gorgeous red and gold binding, but because it features both English and American writers. Perhaps it is a bit more compact than those focusing solely on either English or American authors, but I like it all the same.

Sketch Book - Washington Irving, published by the H.M. Caldwell Company

This collection of stories by Washington Irving is by far my favorite book sale find and the most exquisite book I have ever seen. There is no copyright date in this book, but after a bit of research I am confident in stating that it was printed in either 1896, 1897, or 1898. The intricate floral design on both the front and side binding is stamped in silver and the fancy floral paper also adorning the front cover has a gold-ish ink that shimmers when it catches light. If all that wasn't wonderful enough, the original silk ribbon bookmark remained with the book tucked securely at the beginning of The Legend of Sleepy Hollow. I'm not sure if you can see it in the above photo, but the ribbon has slightly stained the two sheets of paper it's been pressed between.

The Poetical Works of Elizabeth Barrett Browning, Series I

This collection of poems was published by the Collins' Clear-type Press with no indication of a publication date. It is a rather dainty volume and the paper is fragile, so I'm lead to believe it is another oldie.

A Shropshire Lad by A.E. Housman, printed 1931

An Old-Fashioned Girl by Louisa May Alcott

I am uncertain of the publication date of this copy, but I do know that it is no earlier than 1911. The delightful engravings on both the front and back covers are such fun to look at. I see new details every time.

One Hundred Years of Solitude by Gabriel Garcia Marquez, copyright 1970

I would have preferred the hardcover version, but this paperback was the right price and I can't complain about that!

Elephant Cargo by Winifred G. Hammond, copyright 1959

The dust jacket illustration is what drew me to this title. The story itself is interspersed with drawings equally as charming and it looks like a fun read.

Fine additions to a growing book collection, don't you think?