Little old law books on exhibit in library

Miniature books from the library’s Special Collections Department are on display in front of the Patron Services desk on the 2nd floor. These books, published in the 16th and 17th centuries, were most likely printed for law students. Their small size (most are under 4 inches tall) meant the books were less expensive to produce and thus less expensive to buy. Prior to the mechanization of the book industry all books were printed and bound by hand, a time consuming and expensive process. By making miniature books printers and publishers could save money on paper and pass those savings on to their customers.
These miniatures will be on display until the end of June, at which time they will disappear back into the Rare Book vault – don’t miss them!

Rare Books and all items in Special Collections are available for use by students, faculty, staff, and outside researchers from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, Monday through Friday by appointment. To make an appointment contact Heather Kushnerick, Special Collections Librarian, at 713-646-1720, or by email at hkushnerick@stcl.edu.