Designed for the literary student, the student librarian and the beginning book collector, this manual assumes nothing but interest at the outset. In clear language, it serves to take readers to the point at which they are prepared to turn to advanced texts to develop specialized interests.

This book, first published in 1931, first examines the many processes that go to the making of a book – paper, printing, illustration and binding – then lists with running commentary 300 or so important works of reference, and an account of the principles and arrangements of bibliographies.

British librarian Stokes (1915-95) edited the three most recent editions of his colleague Arundell Esdaile's (1880-1956) guide for literary students, student librarians, and embryo book collectors. He assumes nothing at all beyond interest, and carries the explanation to the point that readers can turn to more advanced texts. He explains what bibliography is not by defining it, but offering examples of the various activities it subsumes. Most of the editions have been published by Allen and Unwin. c. Book News Inc.