English Book Collectors

A survey compiles short biographies and descriptions of notable private libraries, tracing the shift from manuscript-rich holdings to printed-book collections while highlighting collectors' personalities, tastes, and their roles in rescuing and preserving rare manuscripts and early printed works. Material is presented chronologically (with an alphabetical index) and often uses contemporary biographical wording to illuminate character and habits. The text examines waves of bibliomania, collecting practices, notable auctions and sales, and how market value has influenced preservation. An appendix listing principal library sales supplies further reference to collectors not otherwise profiled.