The Book-Hunter / A New Edition, with a Memoir of the Author

Name: The Book-Hunter / A New Edition, with a Memoir of the Author
Author: John Hill Burton

By John Hill Burton

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About This Book

A collection of essays and a prefatory memoir examines the temperament and pursuits of book-collectors and the social institutions that surround them. It sketches characteristic book-hunters, auction and library habits, distinctions between casual readers, collectors, and scholars, and the mechanics of bibliographies, preservation, and librarianship. Separate sections discuss private book clubs, their organization and notable members, and reproduce or analyze club-published literature and early northern ecclesiastical writings. Interwoven are reminiscences and practical advice on forming and maintaining libraries, with occasional historical and personal anecdotes illustrating the cultural value of conserving books.

About the Author

John Hill Burton

John Hill Burton was a Scottish historian and biographer, best known for his detailed works on notable figures in literature and philosophy. His most significant contributions include the two-volume "Life and Correspondence of David Hume," which provides an in-depth look at the life of the influential philosopher David Hume, exploring his thoughts and impact on modern philosophy. Additionally, Burton authored "The Book-Hunter," a reflective piece that combines memoir and literary criticism, showcasing his passion for collecting books and the literary world. His writings are valued for their scholarly rigor and insight into the intellectual currents of his time.