Bound for Beauty & Bookplates

Materials from San Diego Public Library's Special Collections

July 1 – August 31, 2023

The Marilyn & Gene Marx Special Collections Center is a section of the San Diego Public Library housed in the 9th floor of the Central Library. The Center houses SDPL's rare books, manuscripts, papers, and other items that are of unique value and importance, and is comprised of three distinct collections: The California Collection, encompassing materials relating primarily to Southern California; The Wangenheim Rare Book Collection, with items illustrating the development of the book; and the Genealogy Collection, containing books, periodicals, and research databases. For more information, visit the Special Collections website HERE.

This display showcases examples of beautiful 19th c. stamped cloth cover books designed by painters, architects, and stained-glass designers meant to grab the eye of bookstore browsers. In addition to these "bound beauties," this display offers a look at some intricate, decorative bookplates, or "ex libris" plates, which are labels that bear the name of the book's owner and are often illustrated with a motif relating to the owner's personality. Stop by and explore some hidden gems today!