The E-Sylum:  Volume 8, Number 52, December 11, 2005, Article 5

KOLBE ON BOOKPLATES

Roger Siboni writes: "I have begun to contemplate the idea
of using some sort of Book Plate, stamp or embossing for
my ever expanding Library. I would appreciate some advice
from our members regarding the appropriateness of this idea
and what is the most archivally correct approach. In other
words, is this just an old custom that in the end does more
harm than good to the book. Or if appropriate, is embossing,
a label or a plate the way to go? Perhaps it depends on
the book.

I would also be curious as to approaches for library
identification. Ford went with a simple JF. I have also
seen some pretty elaborate labels and embossing.

Finally, is there a source for obtaining such material
that would be more archivally correct than say a local
stationary store."

[Simple is good - I like the modest Ford JF bookplate.
In the March 25, 2001 issue of The E-Sylum (v4n13)
George Kolbe addressed the issue of what type of glue
to use on bookplates:

  "Wheat paste is what I used to apply the Bass bookplates,
  and it is what I use for my own ex libris (es). It was
  a gift years ago from a friend who is also a commercial
  bookbinder (I still have a little left - I keep it
  refrigerated). Reversible and non-reactive are the reasons,
  I believe, why it is preferred, though there may be better
  modern products. It used to be available from TALAS,
  though my bookbinder friend makes his own from the
  supermarket variety. To apply it right, you need a book
  press (or a heavy weight - a stack of books will do) and,
  until you become proficient and learn to apply enough
  glue but leave no residue, you need to lay in wax
  paper sheets.

  A few, admittedly biased, caveats: pre-printed labels are
  tacky, as are pressure-sensitive labels (pun intended); round,
  notary-like, blindstamps damage not only the paper but a
  booklover's sensibilities (ink name and address stamps are
  perhaps even worse); smaller is generally better; use good
  taste and spend a few bucks-it's how you will be remembered
  by future bibliophiles."

  Wayne Homren, Editor

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