Books and Reading through the Lens of the Picture Postcard collection, 1900-1960
Collection context
- Extent:
- 1.5 Linear Feet 1 record storage carton, 1 document box
- Language:
- English .
- Scope and content:
-
Books and Reading through the Lens of the Picture Postcard: The collection includes printed postcards, real photo postcards, cyanotypes, sepia tones, undivided backs, divided backs, full bleed borders, white borders, lines and chromes, and largely encompasses the full range and style of printing processes used for modern postcards from approximately 1900-1960. It is arranged by author and title, subjects, and genres and constitutes 1,027 cards. One of the genres reflects a unique phenomenon which illustrates portrait studio and reproduction photography postcards of individuals and groups reading books. The collection includes women reading books, men reading books, women reading books to children, grandmothers reading with kids, children reading books and all the variations. There are also risqué postcards, nudes reading books, etc. Other topics include books publishers, bookseller cards, librarians, and bookmobiles. There are beautifully illustrated postcards featuring some of the leading artists: Howard Pyle, N.C. Wyeth and Frank Schoonover. The post cards are organized in 4 series: 1. Publishers/ Book Store Advertizing Postcards (with Authors and titles); 2. Reading Books; 3. Scenes of Reading; 4. Reading: Mixed Groups of Men and Women Reading. (A detailed list of all the postcards is kept within each series binder).
Access and use
- Restrictions:
-
This collection is located off-site. You will need to request this material at least three business days in advance to use the collection in the Rare Book and Manuscript Library reading room.
- Terms of access:
-
Single reproductions may be made for research purposes. It is the responsibility of the user to secure permission for publication or use from the appropriate copyright holder.
- Preferred citation:
-
Identification of specific item; Date (if known); Books and Reading through the Lens of the Picture Postcard Collection; Box and Folder; Rare Book and Manuscript Library, Columbia University Library.
- Location of this collection:
- Before you visit:
- Researchers interested in viewing materials in the RBML reading room must must book an appointment at least 7 days in advance. To make the most of your visit, be sure to request your desired materials before booking your appointment, as researchers are limited to 5 items per day.
- Contact:
- rbml@library.columbia.edu