Limited Editions Club records

Collection

Identifier: MS 0699

Staff Only

Finding aid note: Stored off-site at the Library Service Center. Please request this material via woodson@rice.edu or call 713-348-2586.

Scope and Contents

The Limited Editions Club records encompass the historical materials for the fine arts press founded in April 1929 by George Macy. It is mainly comprised of administrative/operational files, book dealer catalogues, prospectus, newsletters, and printed ephemera.

Dates

Creation: 1929-2004

Creator

Oak Knoll Books (Organization)

Conditions Governing Access

Materials are open for research.

Conditions Governing Access

Stored off-site at the Library Service Center. Please request this material via woodson@rice.edu or call 713-348-2586.

Conditions Governing Use

Permission to publish from the Limited Editions Club records must be obtained from the Woodson Research Center, Fondren Library, Rice University.

Historical Note

The Limited Editions Club was founded in 1929 by George Macy. Its purpose, as stated in its first prospectus was "to furnish to lovers of beautiful books, unexcelled editions of their favorite works...to place beautifully printed books in the hands of booklovers at commendably low prices...to foster in America a high regard for perfection in bookmaking...by publishing for its members twelve books each year, illustrated by the greatest of artists and planned by the greatest of designers." Macy successfully operated the club until his death in 1956 when his wife and son managed the Club until 1970 when it was sold to Boise Cascade, Inc. In 1972 it was sold to Cardovan Press, Inc. and then again in 1978 to a small group of investors. Its focus changed from a producer of finely printed books to a creator of fine livres d'artistes.

Extent

9 Linear Feet (9 boxes & oversize drawer)

Language of Materials

English

Additional Description

Abstract

The Limited Editions Club records reflect the historical documentation of the fine book press that was founded in 1929. Included in this collection are the monthly letters, prospectuses, holiday greetings, letters to subscribres, advertising materials, publicity, book reviews, book dealer catalogues.

Arrangement

The collection is arranged in four series: Series I Administrative/Operational; Series II Prospectus; Series III Monthly Letter of The Limited Editions Club; Series IV Oversize & Realia