It appears that Edward Tufte's personal library is going to be going under the hammer on December 2nd via Christie's. The auction catalogue is available online and viewings have been arranged for the week prior to the sale. There will be some amazing items in this auction and a must see for any serious science and maths collectors.
This is an incredible opportunity....
Posted by: Wkankovsky | November 11, 2010 at 03:05 AM
An incredible opportunity, certainly. Though I fear that, in contrast to Tufte's statement that his intent is for his books to be used and shared, this auction will result in the accumulated knowledge being fragmented, scattered to the four winds, and sequestered in the private rooms of collectors, held prisoner from the public and those who could best learn from it.
We will hope that the buyers of these items - at prices which may be tough for musuems to match in some cases - will realize the real value of the works is a public one.
Of course, a great thanks to Tufte for collecting, preserving, and sharing many fine examples from his library through his own books. He's contributed mightily to society at large through his work, and has done a giant's work in demonstrating the value - and relevance - of this information.
Posted by: Kevin | November 15, 2010 at 12:05 PM
I have an old book written by Rev J.G. Wood M.A. title Lane and Field dated 1884 in mint condition. Has an inscription as a prize for third place and dated Midsommer 1886. What would this books value be please
Posted by: John Hattingh | November 22, 2010 at 12:23 AM
I think Kevin nailed it. The dissolution and dispersion of the sale books in irrevocable and fundamentally damaging.
Posted by: ed | November 23, 2010 at 04:11 PM