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Tiny tomes are, first and foremost, actual books. Even though they are diminutive in size, measuring less than three inches in height, they share the same attributes as their larger or conventionally sized counterparts. They are collections of written or printed pages, which include poetic verses or narrative prose on a variety of topics, and are sewn or bound together in paper, cloth or leather.
Initially, miniature books were produced for practical purposes. Publishers issued miniaturized versions for a wider patronage; their reduced size made them more transportable than contemporary folios. Religious works, then the classics, and children's books were the first to be published. The first printed miniature book on record is an Officium Beatae Virginis Maria ( 2 1/16" x 1 3/4") printed in 1475, a mere twenty years after the introduction of moveable type.
Nearly four centuries elapsed before the 19th century invention of photolithography revolutionzed the production of minature books. Publications of these diminutive tomes flourished, and the challenge to create even more astonishing examples prevailed. In recent years, miniature book production has equaled, or surpassed, other contemporary literary creations in the artistry of typography, printing and binding.
Yet, unaware of the dynamic impact her generous gift would have, in 1996, Charlotte M. Smith from Newton, Iowa, a publisher, author, book collector and founder of the Tamazunchale Press, presented her personal collection of miniature books to the University of Iowa Libraries. Charlotte, an avid "booklover", first began to collect miniature books in 1970 when her ever-growing collection of regular sized rare and antiquarian books overloaded the available shelving.
The space available for her collection was at a premium, and her husband, Tom, cautioned Charlotte to limit the growth of the collection to the confines of their "bookroom". Charlotte accepted the challenge, and was able to continue nurturing her lifelong appreciation of fine books as she judiciously assembled one of the most extensive private collections of miniature books in the nation, perhaps in the world.
Outstanding is the word that best describes the breadth and depth of this collection, which numbers over 3,000 distinctive pieces, dating from the 17th century to the present.
Multiple selections of titles representing the art and craft of miniature books from the elegance of the classics to the artistry of contemporary fine bookmaking, are highlighted.
Each item exemplifies the extraordinary richness of the collection as a whole. This display is meant to introduce to the viewer the world of miniature books and to acknowledge this remarkable gift.
So also, this exhibition is presented to honor its donor, who is one of the Libraries' most generous benefactors:
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