Wednesday, September 02, 2009

Biblio-Newsletters for September

The September issues of Americana Exchange and Fine Books Notes are out. Both contain good pieces this month, but I should highlight "A Cautionary Tale" from AE, which notes that "The IFPDA, the International Fine Print Dealers Association, a New York based international association of print dealers, issued a letter requesting its 165 members be vigilant about inconsistencies between descriptions and copies of prints offered at Swann Galleries, the leading auction house in the prints field."

Author Bruce McKinney includes the IFPDA's letter to its members, and he contacted Swann and provides their response as well, which reads in part "Not only is Swann a reputable place to buy prints but it is ludicrous to suggest that our expansive and successful business efforts have a negative effect on the marketplace as a whole. We are saddened and perturbed that a few outspoken members of the IFPDA Board disagree with the way we have conducted our business over the past years. And while we welcome all criticism, it must be very carefully understood that Swann continues to stand behind every item we sell."

In Fine Books Notes, Nick Basbanes writes about a recent meeting with Folger librarian Stephen Enniss, among other interesting pieces.