# Start End Original Translated
1 00:00:01,000 00:01:01,000 PeG@SuS Urang Sunda Asli PeG@SuS Urang Sunda Asli
2 00:00:30,120 00:00:35,240 You said we can thank the literature for everything we are and have been. You said we can thank the literature for everything we are and have been.
3 00:00:35,320 00:00:40,600 If the books disappear, history disappears, and so does man. If the books disappear, history disappears, and so does man.
4 00:00:40,680 00:00:46,360 You are probably right. The books do not just contain our dreams and memories. You are probably right. The books do not just contain our dreams and memories.
5 00:00:46,440 00:00:49,560 They give us insight into our own consciousness. They give us insight into our own consciousness.
6 00:00:49,640 00:00:54,680 Some see reading as a kind of escape from reality- Some see reading as a kind of escape from reality-
7 00:00:54,760 00:00:58,440 -to the fictional world of the book. -to the fictional world of the book.
8 00:00:58,520 00:01:03,120 Books are more than that. They make us more human. Books are more than that. They make us more human.
9 00:01:31,960 00:01:37,760 Henry Wessells of James Cummins. We're at the New York Book Fair. Henry Wessells of James Cummins. We're at the New York Book Fair.
10 00:01:37,840 00:01:43,320 Here you switch between pure boredom and fantastic discoveries. Here you switch between pure boredom and fantastic discoveries.
11 00:01:46,600 00:01:51,440 I have a Ph.D. in Spanish lyric poetry from the 15th century. I have a Ph.D. in Spanish lyric poetry from the 15th century.
12 00:01:51,520 00:01:56,880 After 15 years at university, I became an antiquarian bookseller. After 15 years at university, I became an antiquarian bookseller.
13 00:01:56,960 00:02:00,600 So I have had some amazing books in my hands. So I have had some amazing books in my hands.
14 00:02:02,560 00:02:10,000 We also had JP Morgan's copy, which he bought in 1897. We also had JP Morgan's copy, which he bought in 1897.
15 00:02:10,080 00:02:15,840 He also bought a first edition of the very first book that was printed: He also bought a first edition of the very first book that was printed:
16 00:02:16,000 00:02:19,760 Gutenberg's Bible. For 2,750 pounds. SECRET Gutenberg's Bible. For 2,750 pounds. SECRET
17 00:02:19,840 00:02:23,680 Printed on velvet. It is now worth $ 40 million. Printed on velvet. It is now worth $ 40 million.
18 00:02:23,840 00:02:28,680 Just before the fair, we received a Hemingway archive Just before the fair, we received a Hemingway archive
19 00:02:28,840 00:02:34,560 -which contained a Castro doll, which was a bit surprising. -which contained a Castro doll, which was a bit surprising.
20 00:02:34,720 00:02:39,800 It's been pretty good. A little less to take home. It's been pretty good. A little less to take home.
21 00:02:39,880 00:02:44,120 I trade in big books, so it's great to sell some of them. I trade in big books, so it's great to sell some of them.
22 00:02:44,280 00:02:47,400 I put it on the shelf again. I put it on the shelf again.
23 00:03:03,680 00:03:08,920 One third of what I sell is "esoterica", ie cult material. One third of what I sell is "esoterica", ie cult material.
24 00:03:09,000 00:03:12,960 Demon teaching, witchcraft, fetishism, subculture and counterculture. Demon teaching, witchcraft, fetishism, subculture and counterculture.
25 00:03:13,120 00:03:20,440 The more embarrassingly something touches others, the more it appeals to me. The more embarrassingly something touches others, the more it appeals to me.
26 00:03:23,920 00:03:29,680 New York is the world's best book fair, mostly because of its location. New York is the world's best book fair, mostly because of its location.
27 00:03:29,840 00:03:36,320 Right in the middle of the Upper East Side in a beautiful historic building. Right in the middle of the Upper East Side in a beautiful historic building.
28 00:03:36,480 00:03:39,680 A building that is a bit "overripe". A building that is a bit "overripe".
29 00:03:39,840 00:03:43,240 The building has been here since the Civil War- The building has been here since the Civil War-
30 00:03:43,320 00:03:49,680 -but in the early 1900s, this hall was full of tennis courts. -but in the early 1900s, this hall was full of tennis courts.
31 00:03:49,760 00:03:52,360 I played tennis here as a youngster. I played tennis here as a youngster.
32 00:03:55,240 00:04:01,160 I brought along this year. When they ask if I want to take a closer look at something- I brought along this year. When they ask if I want to take a closer look at something-
33 00:04:01,240 00:04:07,920 - I say no. "I can not afford a book for $ 85,000." - I say no. "I can not afford a book for $ 85,000."
34 00:04:08,000 00:04:14,000 Someone showed me a book anyway. She asked if I wanted to see it. Someone showed me a book anyway. She asked if I wanted to see it.
35 00:04:14,160 00:04:16,720 So she showed it to me. So she showed it to me.
36 00:04:16,800 00:04:21,640 I barely dared touch it. I will not end up in an O. Henry short story. I barely dared touch it. I will not end up in an O. Henry short story.
37 00:04:21,720 00:04:25,320 "Now I have to pay you back for the rest of my life." "Now I have to pay you back for the rest of my life."
38 00:04:27,040 00:04:30,640 People's nonchalant attitude surprised me. People's nonchalant attitude surprised me.
39 00:04:30,800 00:04:36,080 A guy put a drink on a book. At my house he had been dead! A guy put a drink on a book. At my house he had been dead!
40 00:04:39,120 00:04:44,720 There are collectors and then there are people who wonder what they are doing. There are collectors and then there are people who wonder what they are doing.
41 00:04:44,880 00:04:49,160 A collector is a sick, obsessed and manic person- A collector is a sick, obsessed and manic person-
42 00:04:49,240 00:04:53,560 -who would sell his grandmother to buy something one likes. -who would sell his grandmother to buy something one likes.
43 00:04:56,240 00:05:02,600 It's a pure fantasy experience, and unlike going to the library- It's a pure fantasy experience, and unlike going to the library-
44 00:05:02,680 00:05:04,640 - everything is for sale! - everything is for sale!
45 00:05:04,720 00:05:09,120 The task of antique bookstores is to inculcate novice The task of antique bookstores is to inculcate novice
46 00:05:09,200 00:05:12,640 -how amazing the book is as a collector's item. -how amazing the book is as a collector's item.
47 00:05:12,800 00:05:19,440 Good bookstores can maintain their customer relationship for up to 30 years. Good bookstores can maintain their customer relationship for up to 30 years.
48 00:05:19,520 00:05:24,240 In other words, those who trade in rare books have In other words, those who trade in rare books have
49 00:05:24,400 00:05:28,640 -the ability to appreciate these books. -the ability to appreciate these books.
50 00:05:28,800 00:05:33,520 I was with a friend who is a wonderful Spanish writer. I was with a friend who is a wonderful Spanish writer.
51 00:05:33,600 00:05:39,520 He almost cried when I showed him a fourth edition of "Don Quixote" - He almost cried when I showed him a fourth edition of "Don Quixote" -
52 00:05:39,680 00:05:43,800 -printed in Brussels in 1611, while Cervantes was still alive. -printed in Brussels in 1611, while Cervantes was still alive.
53 00:05:43,880 00:05:49,520 But that was not where he cried. He cried when he saw the price: 120,000. But that was not where he cried. He cried when he saw the price: 120,000.
54 00:05:49,600 00:05:55,880 He cried when he saw a first edition of Ian Fleming's "Casino Royale" - He cried when he saw a first edition of Ian Fleming's "Casino Royale" -
55 00:05:55,960 00:06:00,280 -for $ 130,000. It can make anyone cry. -for $ 130,000. It can make anyone cry.
56 00:06:02,440 00:06:08,200 The clock in the exhibition hall has stopped at an impossible time. The clock in the exhibition hall has stopped at an impossible time.
57 00:06:08,280 00:06:11,920 That time does not exist. Just like in a casino That time does not exist. Just like in a casino
58 00:06:12,000 00:06:15,200 - people should not think about what time it is. - people should not think about what time it is.
59 00:06:15,280 00:06:20,080 It can feel like being on your way to populate a distant galaxy. It can feel like being on your way to populate a distant galaxy.
60 00:06:20,240 00:06:25,000 With a slightly strange genetic selection. With a slightly strange genetic selection.
61 00:06:32,640 00:06:36,720 "People have put fortunes under control, traveled half the Earth around- "People have put fortunes under control, traveled half the Earth around-
62 00:06:36,800 00:06:42,000 - lied, cheated and stolen, all for a book. "ASW Rosenbach - lied, cheated and stolen, all for a book. "ASW Rosenbach
63 00:06:42,080 00:06:47,640 Collecting books was a refined thing. It was the hobby of the English nobility. Collecting books was a refined thing. It was the hobby of the English nobility.
64 00:06:47,800 00:06:54,520 The typical book collector was an elderly man in a tweed jacket. The typical book collector was an elderly man in a tweed jacket.
65 00:06:54,600 00:06:58,160 -And a pipe. -Yes. And a glass of sherry. -And a pipe. -Yes. And a glass of sherry.
66 00:06:58,320 00:07:01,880 And they apparently always went in tweed. And they apparently always went in tweed.
67 00:07:04,440 00:07:09,240 When people think of antique bookstores, they assume When people think of antique bookstores, they assume
68 00:07:09,320 00:07:12,320 -film, television and pop literature. -film, television and pop literature.
69 00:07:12,480 00:07:16,040 -I was just ... -The arcade is opposite. -I was just ... -The arcade is opposite.
70 00:07:16,120 00:07:20,160 Here we only sell small, square objects called books. Here we only sell small, square objects called books.
71 00:07:20,320 00:07:25,520 -Are you here? That went fast. - They have a fortune in there. -Are you here? That went fast. - They have a fortune in there.
72 00:07:25,600 00:07:29,160 - You're a vulture! -It's all in our industry. - You're a vulture! -It's all in our industry.
73 00:07:30,160 00:07:33,920 - Sorry for the mess. -Are you an author? - Sorry for the mess. -Are you an author?
74 00:07:35,360 00:07:38,040 -Bookseller. -Javel. -Bookseller. -Javel.
75 00:07:38,200 00:07:43,520 Do you have a "Ben-Hur" from 1863 with a double sentence on page 116? Do you have a "Ben-Hur" from 1863 with a double sentence on page 116?
76 00:07:45,720 00:07:47,840 It's for Miss Hanff. It's for Miss Hanff.
77 00:07:48,000 00:07:50,520 It would be fun to ask people- It would be fun to ask people-
78 00:07:50,600 00:07:54,960 -how they imagine an antiquarian bookstore. -how they imagine an antiquarian bookstore.
79 00:07:55,040 00:08:01,120 They will not imagine a model. Rather an older person. They will not imagine a model. Rather an older person.
80 00:08:03,000 00:08:07,160 Everyone has their own opinion, but it is usually romanticized. Everyone has their own opinion, but it is usually romanticized.
81 00:08:07,240 00:08:12,880 And at an antique book fair, you see people who fit into that template. And at an antique book fair, you see people who fit into that template.
82 00:08:14,960 00:08:19,360 The most important bookstore of the 20th century- The most important bookstore of the 20th century-
83 00:08:19,520 00:08:22,040 -was undoubtedly ASW Rosenbach. -was undoubtedly ASW Rosenbach.
84 00:08:22,200 00:08:27,200 He reigned supreme until the 1950s. He reigned supreme until the 1950s.
85 00:08:27,280 00:08:33,480 It is from the classic Rosenbach biography It is from the classic Rosenbach biography
86 00:08:33,559 00:08:37,240 -by Edwin Wolf II and John Fleming. -by Edwin Wolf II and John Fleming.
87 00:08:37,320 00:08:41,640 "Abraham Simon Wolf Rosenbach had plump, pink cheeks. "Abraham Simon Wolf Rosenbach had plump, pink cheeks.
88 00:08:41,720 00:08:46,960 a twinkle in his eye and he walked like a penguin would walk- a twinkle in his eye and he walked like a penguin would walk-
89 00:08:47,040 00:08:49,640 -if a penguin could walk like Rosy. " -if a penguin could walk like Rosy. "
90 00:08:49,720 00:08:54,280 "He was constantly puffing on a pipe, drinking a bottle of whiskey a day- "He was constantly puffing on a pipe, drinking a bottle of whiskey a day-
91 00:08:54,360 00:08:58,200 and was the world's leading antiquarian bookstore. " and was the world's leading antiquarian bookstore. "
92 00:08:58,360 00:09:01,560 "He even admitted it himself." "He even admitted it himself."
93 00:09:01,640 00:09:05,800 "'The doctor', as he was called by friends and staff- "'The doctor', as he was called by friends and staff-
94 00:09:05,880 00:09:09,240 -bought for decades the most important books- -bought for decades the most important books-
95 00:09:09,320 00:09:14,080 -which was auctioned off in England and the United States. " -which was auctioned off in England and the United States. "
96 00:09:14,160 00:09:19,160 Leona Rostenberg and Madeleine Stern started in the industry 1945- Leona Rostenberg and Madeleine Stern started in the industry 1945-
97 00:09:19,320 00:09:25,080 -and they had an incredibly long career of over 60 years. -and they had an incredibly long career of over 60 years.
98 00:09:25,240 00:09:28,480 It was unusual with women in the industry. It was unusual with women in the industry.
99 00:09:28,560 00:09:32,520 Most antiquarian booksellers were men. Most antiquarian booksellers were men.
100 00:09:33,840 00:09:38,800 They became known for selling fantastic books to libraries. They became known for selling fantastic books to libraries.
101 00:09:38,880 00:09:43,920 -and for their travels to Europe, where they found books- -and for their travels to Europe, where they found books-
102 00:09:44,080 00:09:46,080 -which no one thought existed. -which no one thought existed.
103 00:09:46,240 00:09:53,120 They discovered that Louisa May Alcott also wrote colored literature. They discovered that Louisa May Alcott also wrote colored literature.
104 00:09:53,280 00:09:57,120 Often books filled with sex and violence. Often books filled with sex and violence.
105 00:09:57,200 00:10:01,200 They found the pseudonyms and the books- They found the pseudonyms and the books-
106 00:10:01,280 00:10:07,280 -and managed to gather the pieces about the author's life. -and managed to gather the pieces about the author's life.
107 00:10:21,000 00:10:25,440 Nothing yet. Ross Tuckman and Mike Welosky said no. Nothing yet. Ross Tuckman and Mike Welosky said no.
108 00:10:25,520 00:10:29,640 -Jimmy Robinson could not. -Fine. -Jimmy Robinson could not. -Fine.
109 00:10:29,720 00:10:33,920 - Have you heard anything from Dan? -No. I think a little. - Have you heard anything from Dan? -No. I think a little.
110 00:10:34,000 00:10:37,840 I have a film crew here. I have a film crew here.
111 00:10:38,000 00:10:41,960 At your home? Why? At your home? Why?
112 00:10:42,040 00:10:48,640 A friend makes a documentary about bookstores, and I'm. A friend makes a documentary about bookstores, and I'm.
113 00:10:48,720 00:10:55,160 I know lots of better bookstores. They also look better. I know lots of better bookstores. They also look better.
114 00:11:00,520 00:11:02,640 How did you end up in the book business? How did you end up in the book business?
115 00:11:02,720 00:11:06,200 I guess I'm not good at anything else. I guess I'm not good at anything else.
116 00:11:07,720 00:11:12,480 I was considering my future and there was a bookstore in Queens- I was considering my future and there was a bookstore in Queens-
117 00:11:12,560 00:11:19,360 -where I often came. I bought these books there. -where I often came. I bought these books there.
118 00:11:19,440 00:11:23,440 Four volumes of Lewis and Clark's diaries, the Coues edition. Four volumes of Lewis and Clark's diaries, the Coues edition.
119 00:11:23,520 00:11:29,600 It cost $ 75. More than I had ever spent on a book. It cost $ 75. More than I had ever spent on a book.
120 00:11:29,680 00:11:34,480 I saved together and bought them. He needed a part-time I saved together and bought them. He needed a part-time
121 00:11:34,560 00:11:36,800 -and suddenly I was in the book business. -and suddenly I was in the book business.
122 00:11:36,960 00:11:42,920 It's a 1907 photo album, "The Search for Mammoth". It's a 1907 photo album, "The Search for Mammoth".
123 00:11:44,000 00:11:49,560 An expedition found a frozen mammoth, which they dug up. An expedition found a frozen mammoth, which they dug up.
124 00:11:49,720 00:11:52,840 But what makes the album so special- But what makes the album so special-
125 00:11:53,000 00:11:58,720 -that they inserted some samples of real mammoth hair at the back of the book. -that they inserted some samples of real mammoth hair at the back of the book.
126 00:12:00,760 00:12:04,880 It's real mammoth hair, which may be 15,000 years old. It's real mammoth hair, which may be 15,000 years old.
127 00:12:08,640 00:12:13,800 -I'm here almost every day. -How many teams do you play on? -I'm here almost every day. -How many teams do you play on?
128 00:12:13,880 00:12:17,440 Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday ... Seven. Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday ... Seven.
129 00:12:17,520 00:12:21,440 And then I'm replacing on an eighth, but only occasionally. And then I'm replacing on an eighth, but only occasionally.
130 00:12:21,520 00:12:24,200 - Do you love softball? -Yes. - Do you love softball? -Yes.
131 00:12:29,240 00:12:34,200 -How long have you lived here? -18-19 years. 1998. -How long have you lived here? -18-19 years. 1998.
132 00:12:34,280 00:12:38,160 19 years. Hold on then ... scary. 19 years. Hold on then ... scary.
133 00:12:43,920 00:12:47,320 It took three months to move. It took three months to move.
134 00:12:47,400 00:12:52,680 I got up, went in here and built bookshelves all day. I got up, went in here and built bookshelves all day.
135 00:12:52,760 00:12:56,840 I went home, packed books until midnight, slept a little, and got up again- I went home, packed books until midnight, slept a little, and got up again-
136 00:12:57,000 00:13:01,840 -cycled here and built several bookshelves. And so on... -cycled here and built several bookshelves. And so on...
137 00:13:02,000 00:13:07,720 When I buy a new book, I have to relocate. There is no more space. When I buy a new book, I have to relocate. There is no more space.
138 00:13:07,800 00:13:11,640 This book about the catacombs of Rome is so heavy- This book about the catacombs of Rome is so heavy-
139 00:13:11,720 00:13:16,040 -that it's been there since I put it there 15 years ago. -that it's been there since I put it there 15 years ago.
140 00:13:16,120 00:13:20,640 I took it to a fair. Never again. So it says- I took it to a fair. Never again. So it says-
141 00:13:20,720 00:13:26,720 -until someone comes and asks for a book about the catacombs of Rome. -until someone comes and asks for a book about the catacombs of Rome.
142 00:13:29,520 00:13:33,480 This is a monograph on fish fossils from the 18th century. This is a monograph on fish fossils from the 18th century.
143 00:13:33,560 00:13:40,160 It is a large book with amazing plates of fish fossils. It is a large book with amazing plates of fish fossils.
144 00:13:41,160 00:13:47,040 Life-size. So the big fish Life-size. So the big fish
145 00:13:47,120 00:13:51,640 -has very large plates. Like this. -has very large plates. Like this.
146 00:13:53,440 00:13:55,680 They can get even bigger. They can get even bigger.
147 00:13:58,680 00:14:01,600 Playboy, go home. Playboy, go home.
148 00:14:19,080 00:14:22,680 Strand was founded by my grandfather in 1927- Strand was founded by my grandfather in 1927-
149 00:14:22,760 00:14:26,440 -in a famous area of ​​New York, Book Row. -in a famous area of ​​New York, Book Row.
150 00:14:27,880 00:14:33,120 There were 48 booksellers. Today, only Strand is left. There were 48 booksellers. Today, only Strand is left.
151 00:14:34,040 00:14:37,720 My dad got a job there when he was 13. My dad got a job there when he was 13.
152 00:14:37,880 00:14:42,200 He would rather be on the floor. His desk was in the middle of the store. He would rather be on the floor. His desk was in the middle of the store.
153 00:14:43,440 00:14:49,440 I met some wonderful, eccentric and charming people- I met some wonderful, eccentric and charming people-
154 00:14:49,520 00:14:52,120 -at the bookstores on Fourth Avenue. -at the bookstores on Fourth Avenue.
155 00:14:53,760 00:14:59,920 I remember it was a bunch of slightly dusty Jewish men- I remember it was a bunch of slightly dusty Jewish men-
156 00:15:00,000 00:15:03,880 -who got annoyed if one wanted to buy a book. -who got annoyed if one wanted to buy a book.
157 00:15:03,960 00:15:06,920 They were not businessmen. They were not businessmen.
158 00:15:07,000 00:15:13,240 They just wanted to read all day. In hot weather they sat outside. They just wanted to read all day. In hot weather they sat outside.
159 00:15:13,400 00:15:17,120 They were covered in dust and their fingers were yellow with nicotine. They were covered in dust and their fingers were yellow with nicotine.
160 00:15:17,200 00:15:21,120 They wore glasses because they had been reading in the dark since childhood. They wore glasses because they had been reading in the dark since childhood.
161 00:15:21,200 00:15:26,560 If they were politely asked what a book cost, they did not look up. If they were politely asked what a book cost, they did not look up.
162 00:15:26,720 00:15:29,840 I thought I would end up like that. I thought I would end up like that.
163 00:15:30,000 00:15:34,840 One could find anything. They did not know what they had. One could find anything. They did not know what they had.
164 00:15:34,920 00:15:40,920 If you were lucky, you got a prize. About 40 cents, so that was good. If you were lucky, you got a prize. About 40 cents, so that was good.
165 00:15:42,160 00:15:45,040 That was not the case in Strand. That was not the case in Strand.
166 00:15:45,120 00:15:49,000 I often found books there and asked someone about them- I often found books there and asked someone about them-
167 00:15:49,080 00:15:53,720 and he said, "Where did you find it?" "Behind that door." and he said, "Where did you find it?" "Behind that door."
168 00:15:53,800 00:15:57,560 "You must not be there! They are not price marked yet." "You must not be there! They are not price marked yet."
169 00:15:57,640 00:16:02,720 So a big part of the experience for me is sniffing around the store. So a big part of the experience for me is sniffing around the store.
170 00:16:02,800 00:16:05,840 I still do, even if you are not allowed to. I still do, even if you are not allowed to.
171 00:16:11,440 00:16:15,480 I'm sorry I did not photograph the street. I'm sorry I did not photograph the street.
172 00:16:15,560 00:16:17,920 It has really changed. It has really changed.
173 00:16:18,080 00:16:24,920 There was traffic in both directions on 59th Street, also by tram. There was traffic in both directions on 59th Street, also by tram.
174 00:16:27,160 00:16:31,080 It was founded by our father in 1925. It was founded by our father in 1925.
175 00:16:31,160 00:16:34,120 One of Fourth Avenue's bookstores. One of Fourth Avenue's bookstores.
176 00:16:34,200 00:16:38,200 When he opened, he did not have enough books- When he opened, he did not have enough books-
177 00:16:38,280 00:16:41,400 -so he put them sideways. -so he put them sideways.
178 00:16:42,560 00:16:48,040 We were there on Saturday, sharpening pencils and looking at the children's books. We were there on Saturday, sharpening pencils and looking at the children's books.
179 00:16:48,120 00:16:52,800 I wanted to work there one summer when I went to college. I wanted to work there one summer when I went to college.
180 00:16:52,880 00:16:59,280 But I could not type, so I had to find another job. But I could not type, so I had to find another job.
181 00:16:59,440 00:17:03,800 It was the same the summer after. "Can you type now?" It was the same the summer after. "Can you type now?"
182 00:17:03,960 00:17:08,119 So he was not trying to get us to work there. So he was not trying to get us to work there.
183 00:17:09,400 00:17:13,200 People ask how he got all his daughters to work there. People ask how he got all his daughters to work there.
184 00:17:13,280 00:17:15,319 "I am lucky." "I am lucky."
185 00:17:15,400 00:17:19,359 But he never told us that was his goal. But he never told us that was his goal.
186 00:17:19,440 00:17:23,920 We thought it was our own decision. We thought it was our own decision.
187 00:17:24,000 00:17:29,720 My mom started working in the industry when I was ten. My mom started working in the industry when I was ten.
188 00:17:30,760 00:17:34,760 She was amazing. She created the gallery upstairs. She was amazing. She created the gallery upstairs.
189 00:17:34,840 00:17:39,840 She said my father should not force us to work there. She said my father should not force us to work there.
190 00:17:39,920 00:17:42,000 She was smart. She was smart.
191 00:17:43,800 00:17:48,560 On the top floor is the autograph department. On the top floor is the autograph department.
192 00:17:48,640 00:17:53,240 I started it to have my own. I have many sisters. I started it to have my own. I have many sisters.
193 00:17:54,480 00:18:01,720 I love baseball. Here we have a baseball signed by Bill Clinton. I love baseball. Here we have a baseball signed by Bill Clinton.
194 00:18:01,880 00:18:05,520 Zack has collected 11,012 baseballs from various Major League matches. Zack has collected 11,012 baseballs from various Major League matches.
195 00:18:05,680 00:18:09,200 He's also your world champion in "Arkanoid". He's also your world champion in "Arkanoid".
196 00:18:09,360 00:18:13,040 It can be autographs of money from the colonial era- It can be autographs of money from the colonial era-
197 00:18:13,200 00:18:17,560 and autographs in different languages ​​that are impossible to interpret. and autographs in different languages ​​that are impossible to interpret.
198 00:18:17,640 00:18:21,040 It's a constant hunt. It's a constant hunt.
199 00:18:28,680 00:18:33,920 -Why has your store survived? -We own the property. -Why has your store survived? -We own the property.
200 00:18:34,000 00:18:39,200 Our father bought the building and we have received many offers. Our father bought the building and we have received many offers.
201 00:18:39,280 00:18:45,640 The brokers call five to ten times a week, but we do not sell. The brokers call five to ten times a week, but we do not sell.
202 00:18:45,800 00:18:50,000 It is not excluded, but not for the money they offer. It is not excluded, but not for the money they offer.
203 00:18:50,080 00:18:54,000 Then we had to close and we enjoy being here. Then we had to close and we enjoy being here.
204 00:18:54,160 00:18:57,440 So we pay for the joy of working here. So we pay for the joy of working here.
205 00:18:58,920 00:19:03,880 If I had an hour between different commitments- If I had an hour between different commitments-
206 00:19:03,960 00:19:10,760 -I found a bookstore. And back then, all booksellers were self-employed. -I found a bookstore. And back then, all booksellers were self-employed.
207 00:19:10,920 00:19:14,360 The employees were real booksellers. The employees were real booksellers.
208 00:19:14,440 00:19:17,960 They decided for themselves what they wanted to sell. They decided for themselves what they wanted to sell.
209 00:19:18,120 00:19:23,080 Not like at Barnes & Noble. Today's youth say to me: Not like at Barnes & Noble. Today's youth say to me:
210 00:19:23,240 00:19:28,000 "My Barnes & Noble is closed." But they forced everyone else to close! "My Barnes & Noble is closed." But they forced everyone else to close!
211 00:19:30,400 00:19:36,600 It was an old-fashioned store. Books everywhere and a cat, Linda. It was an old-fashioned store. Books everywhere and a cat, Linda.
212 00:19:36,760 00:19:40,480 It was Skyline Books on West 18th Street 13. It was Skyline Books on West 18th Street 13.
213 00:19:40,640 00:19:45,720 My specialties were beatnik culture, photography, art. My specialties were beatnik culture, photography, art.
214 00:19:45,880 00:19:50,600 We were probably known as a shop for collectors. We were probably known as a shop for collectors.
215 00:19:50,680 00:19:54,960 I was behind with the rent so I had to close. I was behind with the rent so I had to close.
216 00:19:55,040 00:19:58,560 The business was going badly. People bought books online. The business was going badly. People bought books online.
217 00:20:00,600 00:20:06,640 It was a hard time. We held many sales in the end. It was a hard time. We held many sales in the end.
218 00:20:06,720 00:20:11,640 75% discount. Even 90% off at some point. 75% discount. Even 90% off at some point.
219 00:20:11,800 00:20:14,120 It was fun as long as it lasted. It was fun as long as it lasted.
220 00:20:16,000 00:20:22,000 In the 1950s, there were 368 bookstores in New York City. In the 1950s, there were 368 bookstores in New York City.
221 00:20:22,160 00:20:24,240 Today there are 79. Today there are 79.
222 00:20:25,080 00:20:28,960 The decline in bookstores has had a major effect. The decline in bookstores has had a major effect.
223 00:20:29,040 00:20:32,320 It was a path into the industry. It was a path into the industry.
224 00:20:32,480 00:20:38,920 I grew up in the 70s and learned everything from antique bookstores. I grew up in the 70s and learned everything from antique bookstores.
225 00:20:39,080 00:20:42,440 There you got a sense of the material. There you got a sense of the material.
226 00:20:44,400 00:20:48,960 I lived almost in bookstores and antique shops. I lived almost in bookstores and antique shops.
227 00:20:49,040 00:20:52,720 I went from New England to New Jersey- I went from New England to New Jersey-
228 00:20:52,800 00:20:56,320 and stopped at all antiquarian bookstores along the way. and stopped at all antiquarian bookstores along the way.
229 00:20:57,480 00:21:02,480 Car trips were an important way of obtaining materials. Car trips were an important way of obtaining materials.
230 00:21:02,640 00:21:07,840 We filled a station wagon with books and sent loads of books home. We filled a station wagon with books and sent loads of books home.
231 00:21:08,000 00:21:10,040 This is how it was done before. This is how it was done before.
232 00:21:10,200 00:21:13,560 People do not have the patience to botanize. People do not have the patience to botanize.
233 00:21:13,640 00:21:19,720 Most people want a specific book. It requires some interest Most people want a specific book. It requires some interest
234 00:21:19,800 00:21:26,080 -for that one should want to find a book that one was not looking for. -for that one should want to find a book that one was not looking for.
235 00:21:28,560 00:21:32,720 One has to see a large selection to be able to price books. One has to see a large selection to be able to price books.
236 00:21:32,800 00:21:37,840 An experienced bookseller can see if it is an ordinary book- An experienced bookseller can see if it is an ordinary book-
237 00:21:37,920 00:21:41,880 -which should have a regular price, or whether it requires a little imagination. -which should have a regular price, or whether it requires a little imagination.
238 00:21:42,040 00:21:44,280 I have a pretty good imagination. I have a pretty good imagination.
239 00:21:45,480 00:21:49,200 My first job in the industry was at Strand as a teenager- My first job in the industry was at Strand as a teenager-
240 00:21:49,360 00:21:53,720 -and to see Fred Bass review thousands of incoming books. -and to see Fred Bass review thousands of incoming books.
241 00:21:53,880 00:22:00,320 He sorted them so quickly. "It's good," I said. "No". He sorted them so quickly. "It's good," I said. "No".
242 00:22:00,400 00:22:02,640 He was so fast. He was so fast.
243 00:22:02,800 00:22:06,560 I thought I understood books- I thought I understood books-
244 00:22:06,640 00:22:10,800 -but he saw something in them that I did not perceive. -but he saw something in them that I did not perceive.
245 00:22:11,600 00:22:16,680 In the last year, we have seen an explosive increase In the last year, we have seen an explosive increase
246 00:22:16,760 00:22:21,680 -in the number of physical antique shops- -in the number of physical antique shops-
247 00:22:21,760 00:22:25,040 -which sells material from the post-war period. -which sells material from the post-war period.
248 00:22:25,120 00:22:30,800 But they can not replace the antique shops that existed before. But they can not replace the antique shops that existed before.
249 00:22:32,760 00:22:38,440 This will be our business. Right now it's a shoe store. This will be our business. Right now it's a shoe store.
250 00:22:38,520 00:22:41,880 We got the keys yesterday and open for March. We got the keys yesterday and open for March.
251 00:22:42,880 00:22:49,000 We are part of a boom in local, independent bookstores- We are part of a boom in local, independent bookstores-
252 00:22:49,080 00:22:53,080 -which really works locally and takes care of- -which really works locally and takes care of-
253 00:22:53,160 00:22:58,480 the interests and needs of the residents, which the chains did not. the interests and needs of the residents, which the chains did not.
254 00:23:06,760 00:23:09,840 A moment. The Adam Weinberger Antique Store. A moment. The Adam Weinberger Antique Store.
255 00:23:10,000 00:23:14,320 There is a bad connection. Plays from the 19th century? There is a bad connection. Plays from the 19th century?
256 00:23:14,400 00:23:21,560 My stores are getting full and it's expensive to rent in Manhattan. My stores are getting full and it's expensive to rent in Manhattan.
257 00:23:21,640 00:23:26,200 -so I chose to gather everything in one apartment instead. -so I chose to gather everything in one apartment instead.
258 00:23:27,680 00:23:29,120 Kansas. Kansas.
259 00:23:29,280 00:23:34,880 The Adam Weinberger Antique Store. What books are these? The Adam Weinberger Antique Store. What books are these?
260 00:23:35,040 00:23:42,240 The sides are of parchment, so think about how many cows have been used for it. The sides are of parchment, so think about how many cows have been used for it.
261 00:23:45,920 00:23:50,000 It's hard to know if anyone will sell. It's hard to know if anyone will sell.
262 00:23:50,080 00:23:54,400 I once went to someone's house with a couple of empty filing cabinets. I once went to someone's house with a couple of empty filing cabinets.
263 00:23:54,560 00:23:59,120 -which are good to have books in, but the lady who opened the door- -which are good to have books in, but the lady who opened the door-
264 00:23:59,200 00:24:04,760 - looked at the boxes and said, "You will not need them today." - looked at the boxes and said, "You will not need them today."
265 00:24:04,920 00:24:08,680 I understand her. Here I come and want to ravage- I understand her. Here I come and want to ravage-
266 00:24:08,760 00:24:12,080 -a decades old collection. -a decades old collection.
267 00:24:16,000 00:24:20,520 - Did he buy them all at Gotham? -Yes. - Did he buy them all at Gotham? -Yes.
268 00:24:21,360 00:24:28,200 I also love cats. That's why I like Gore so much. I also love cats. That's why I like Gore so much.
269 00:24:31,320 00:24:38,240 Unsigned beatnik material, books missing covers ... Unsigned beatnik material, books missing covers ...
270 00:24:38,320 00:24:44,520 There are ten copies of all that on the web. Especially by Kerouac. There are ten copies of all that on the web. Especially by Kerouac.
271 00:24:57,840 00:25:02,320 Here lived my uncle Jack Allentuck and his wife Marsha Allentuck. Here lived my uncle Jack Allentuck and his wife Marsha Allentuck.
272 00:25:02,400 00:25:08,200 They were academics. I take care of everything I inherited from them. They were academics. I take care of everything I inherited from them.
273 00:25:08,280 00:25:11,320 The remains of theirs, so to speak. The remains of theirs, so to speak.
274 00:25:13,920 00:25:18,600 That sounded interesting. The woman teaches art history. That sounded interesting. The woman teaches art history.
275 00:25:18,680 00:25:22,520 She was an expert on Blake and the Romantic She was an expert on Blake and the Romantic
276 00:25:22,600 00:25:26,640 -and I immediately felt that there was potential. -and I immediately felt that there was potential.
277 00:25:28,720 00:25:34,920 I usually look a little ... Here may be some grains of gold. I usually look a little ... Here may be some grains of gold.
278 00:25:37,960 00:25:43,360 It's just exciting every time. You are a place- It's just exciting every time. You are a place-
279 00:25:43,440 00:25:49,080 -where anyone has put their soul in the collection. Not just physically -where anyone has put their soul in the collection. Not just physically
280 00:25:49,160 00:25:54,880 -but intellectually, and one can see what caught their interest. -but intellectually, and one can see what caught their interest.
281 00:26:02,000 00:26:08,000 More has changed in the last 15 years than in the previous 150 years. More has changed in the last 15 years than in the previous 150 years.
282 00:26:09,120 00:26:14,080 For several generations, there were so-called book scouts For several generations, there were so-called book scouts
283 00:26:14,240 00:26:17,480 -which existed on the fringes of the world of books- -which existed on the fringes of the world of books-
284 00:26:17,560 00:26:21,240 and merged books and bookstores. and merged books and bookstores.
285 00:26:22,080 00:26:27,240 They visited church bazaars, estates, library outlets and so on. They visited church bazaars, estates, library outlets and so on.
286 00:26:27,320 00:26:31,360 And it was a symbiotic relationship. And it was a symbiotic relationship.
287 00:26:31,440 00:26:35,120 Today, book scouts are an endangered species. Today, book scouts are an endangered species.
288 00:26:35,280 00:26:38,680 Martin Stone was a legend. Martin Stone was a legend.
289 00:26:38,760 00:26:42,960 A charismatic musician who almost became a member of the Rolling Stones. A charismatic musician who almost became a member of the Rolling Stones.
290 00:26:43,040 00:26:48,320 He traveled with his band, and in his spare time he visited bookstores. He traveled with his band, and in his spare time he visited bookstores.
291 00:26:48,480 00:26:53,440 Fantastic book scout. Exquisite taste. Understood the connection between books. Fantastic book scout. Exquisite taste. Understood the connection between books.
292 00:26:53,520 00:26:57,080 He was like a living encyclopedia. He was like a living encyclopedia.
293 00:26:57,240 00:27:03,520 I just found a book that appeals to me tremendously. I just found a book that appeals to me tremendously.
294 00:27:03,600 00:27:06,800 He always carried around a lot of plastic bags. He always carried around a lot of plastic bags.
295 00:27:06,960 00:27:10,640 He was already done when the rest of us started. He was already done when the rest of us started.
296 00:27:10,800 00:27:16,360 He showed us his purchases and told about them. I learned a lot. He showed us his purchases and told about them. I learned a lot.
297 00:27:17,320 00:27:22,480 Martin did not just know everything. He could also impart his knowledge. Martin did not just know everything. He could also impart his knowledge.
298 00:27:22,560 00:27:25,400 His understanding of book- His understanding of book-
299 00:27:25,480 00:27:30,000 -stretched from the offer box all the way up to the expensive, locked cupboards. -stretched from the offer box all the way up to the expensive, locked cupboards.
300 00:27:31,680 00:27:36,280 The industry changed dramatically when computers came along. The industry changed dramatically when computers came along.
301 00:27:36,360 00:27:41,480 Books that had cost $ 50, $ 75, $ 100, $ 100 and $ 125 Books that had cost $ 50, $ 75, $ 100, $ 100 and $ 125
302 00:27:41,640 00:27:46,800 - suddenly cost $ 20-30 and there were plenty of them. - suddenly cost $ 20-30 and there were plenty of them.
303 00:27:47,640 00:27:52,840 It's almost harder to find a cheap book than an expensive one. It's almost harder to find a cheap book than an expensive one.
304 00:27:53,000 00:27:55,560 -because you had to find it yourself. -because you had to find it yourself.
305 00:27:55,640 00:28:00,720 In the last ten years, all the garbage that has accumulated dust somewhere has In the last ten years, all the garbage that has accumulated dust somewhere has
306 00:28:00,800 00:28:06,040 -appeared on the Internet. The supply has increased enormously. -appeared on the Internet. The supply has increased enormously.
307 00:28:07,000 00:28:10,760 This applies to books, toys. Anything. This applies to books, toys. Anything.
308 00:28:10,920 00:28:15,120 The internet ruined everything. It's good for collectors- The internet ruined everything. It's good for collectors-
309 00:28:15,200 00:28:21,200 -who can find books they've been looking for for decades. -who can find books they've been looking for for decades.
310 00:28:21,360 00:28:27,240 But surviving as an antique shop is almost impossible. But surviving as an antique shop is almost impossible.
311 00:28:27,400 00:28:31,000 Being a collector is about the hunt, not the object. Being a collector is about the hunt, not the object.
312 00:28:31,080 00:28:35,160 You look for a book for 20 years, find it, have an orgasm You look for a book for 20 years, find it, have an orgasm
313 00:28:35,240 00:28:37,000 -and puts it away. -and puts it away.
314 00:28:38,480 00:28:44,440 The Internet has ruined the hunt. Give me your credit card and 45 minutes- The Internet has ruined the hunt. Give me your credit card and 45 minutes-
315 00:28:44,520 00:28:48,480 -then I can get an almost complete Edith Wharton collection. -then I can get an almost complete Edith Wharton collection.
316 00:28:48,640 00:28:51,080 But why should I? But why should I?
317 00:28:52,120 00:28:56,160 The Internet will always be a double-edged sword. The Internet will always be a double-edged sword.
318 00:28:56,320 00:29:02,520 Today one must have the best, the cheapest or the only edition. Today one must have the best, the cheapest or the only edition.
319 00:29:04,320 00:29:08,880 The Internet changed the concept of "rare". The Internet changed the concept of "rare".
320 00:29:08,960 00:29:12,680 Those who deal with very special things Those who deal with very special things
321 00:29:12,760 00:29:17,960 - received confirmation from the internet. "I have things you can't get your hands on." - received confirmation from the internet. "I have things you can't get your hands on."
322 00:29:18,120 00:29:22,960 But working with modern first editions was devastating. But working with modern first editions was devastating.
323 00:29:23,040 00:29:26,120 They had to adapt or die. They had to adapt or die.
324 00:29:26,280 00:29:32,040 The industry today has become colder. An era is over. The industry today has become colder. An era is over.
325 00:29:32,120 00:29:37,200 The Internet, of course, democratizes supply and demand. The Internet, of course, democratizes supply and demand.
326 00:29:37,360 00:29:43,080 But it has also killed a lot of the dark, gloomy and funny. But it has also killed a lot of the dark, gloomy and funny.
327 00:29:44,640 00:29:49,280 One problem is that the printed word disappears. One problem is that the printed word disappears.
328 00:29:49,440 00:29:55,360 If you say "Kindle", there are probably many in the industry who shake. If you say "Kindle", there are probably many in the industry who shake.
329 00:29:55,440 00:30:00,400 Many wonder where we end up. If you do not need to print books Many wonder where we end up. If you do not need to print books
330 00:30:00,480 00:30:06,680 -but get them on his electronic device, then what are we going to sell? -but get them on his electronic device, then what are we going to sell?
331 00:30:06,760 00:30:10,240 That is a legitimate concern. That is a legitimate concern.
332 00:30:10,400 00:30:17,720 An incredible example of this we got at the Oscars in 2006- An incredible example of this we got at the Oscars in 2006-
333 00:30:17,800 00:30:23,400 -when Larry McMurtry won an Oscar for best screenplay after a book- -when Larry McMurtry won an Oscar for best screenplay after a book-
334 00:30:23,480 00:30:26,120 -for "Brokeback Mountain". -for "Brokeback Mountain".
335 00:30:26,200 00:30:29,920 Finally, I want to thank all the bookstores in the world. Finally, I want to thank all the bookstores in the world.
336 00:30:30,000 00:30:33,920 "Brokeback Mountain" was a book first. "Brokeback Mountain" was a book first.
337 00:30:34,000 00:30:38,680 From the small bookstores to the world's largest bookstore From the small bookstores to the world's largest bookstore
338 00:30:38,760 00:30:43,520 -have you all contributed to the book's survival. -have you all contributed to the book's survival.
339 00:30:43,600 00:30:48,280 A wonderful form of culture that we must not lose. A wonderful form of culture that we must not lose.
340 00:30:48,440 00:30:51,720 People always want what is unique. People always want what is unique.
341 00:30:51,880 00:30:56,920 Interest in modern first editions is falling in favor of collectors' items. Interest in modern first editions is falling in favor of collectors' items.
342 00:30:57,000 00:31:02,080 and quirky, printed materials which previously had no collector value- and quirky, printed materials which previously had no collector value-
343 00:31:02,160 00:31:04,720 -but that is interesting. -but that is interesting.
344 00:31:04,880 00:31:10,520 Technology has made archives more interesting to institutions. Technology has made archives more interesting to institutions.
345 00:31:11,440 00:31:15,120 We sold a few files to a foundation in Tulsa, Oklahoma. We sold a few files to a foundation in Tulsa, Oklahoma.
346 00:31:15,280 00:31:18,960 Woodie Guthries and Bob Dylan's Archive. Woodie Guthries and Bob Dylan's Archive.
347 00:31:19,120 00:31:23,880 e can take all the audiovisual material e can take all the audiovisual material
348 00:31:23,960 00:31:26,640 -and turn it into a gold mine- -and turn it into a gold mine-
349 00:31:26,800 00:31:30,960 -for fans and academics. You could not do that ten years ago. -for fans and academics. You could not do that ten years ago.
350 00:31:32,720 00:31:39,440 I cleaned up my office and had all the material from my books- I cleaned up my office and had all the material from my books-
351 00:31:39,600 00:31:43,560 -all the articles from The New Yorker and all my notes- -all the articles from The New Yorker and all my notes-
352 00:31:43,720 00:31:48,080 -and I started thinking that I might not have to throw it away. -and I started thinking that I might not have to throw it away.
353 00:31:49,120 00:31:54,200 I've known Glenn for a long time, and I knew he had sold I've known Glenn for a long time, and I knew he had sold
354 00:31:54,280 00:31:56,640 -other archives. -other archives.
355 00:31:56,800 00:32:02,520 He looked at my material and we talked about where it should go. He looked at my material and we talked about where it should go.
356 00:32:02,600 00:32:09,200 -and found that it fit best in an academic library. -and found that it fit best in an academic library.
357 00:32:09,280 00:32:14,680 It was a strange feeling to become someone's homework. It was a strange feeling to become someone's homework.
358 00:32:16,200 00:32:21,240 The positive is that everything is now really well organized. The positive is that everything is now really well organized.
359 00:32:21,400 00:32:24,880 The irony of being at Columbia University- The irony of being at Columbia University-
360 00:32:24,960 00:32:30,640 -and I'm going there this summer and to use the archive for a book project. -and I'm going there this summer and to use the archive for a book project.
361 00:32:31,800 00:32:37,160 But when so much of the work today is done on a computer But when so much of the work today is done on a computer
362 00:32:37,320 00:32:43,360 -I'm thinking about how we can learn something about the author's process. -I'm thinking about how we can learn something about the author's process.
363 00:32:43,520 00:32:48,040 The computer leaves no trace of editing. The computer leaves no trace of editing.
364 00:32:50,080 00:32:54,600 The difference between an archive and a collection is The difference between an archive and a collection is
365 00:32:54,680 00:32:59,680 -that the archive contains everything. Also the more unexpected parts. -that the archive contains everything. Also the more unexpected parts.
366 00:32:59,840 00:33:06,160 We have collections from Malcolm X, Lorraine Hansberry- We have collections from Malcolm X, Lorraine Hansberry-
367 00:33:06,320 00:33:08,560 and James Baldwin. and James Baldwin.
368 00:33:08,640 00:33:14,440 Baldwin grew up in Harlem and learned to read at the Schomburg Center. Baldwin grew up in Harlem and learned to read at the Schomburg Center.
369 00:33:14,520 00:33:17,920 -so he really belongs here. -so he really belongs here.
370 00:33:18,000 00:33:23,680 His archive contains both notes, completed novels- His archive contains both notes, completed novels-
371 00:33:23,840 00:33:26,520 -and a lot of different drafts. -and a lot of different drafts.
372 00:33:26,680 00:33:31,000 There are notes he has made at bars and at various hotels. There are notes he has made at bars and at various hotels.
373 00:33:31,080 00:33:34,520 One can follow Baldwin's development as a writer. One can follow Baldwin's development as a writer.
374 00:33:34,600 00:33:40,080 Everything from early poems to the works we know and love today. Everything from early poems to the works we know and love today.
375 00:33:40,240 00:33:44,520 The curator, a position I held for many years, is an important The curator, a position I held for many years, is an important
376 00:33:44,680 00:33:48,720 -which both provide material to the institution- -which both provide material to the institution-
377 00:33:48,880 00:33:51,040 -and make sure to forward it. -and make sure to forward it.
378 00:33:51,200 00:33:56,400 One should also try to look at the collection as a whole. One should also try to look at the collection as a whole.
379 00:33:56,480 00:34:00,480 What does it mean? How to find the connection in the material? What does it mean? How to find the connection in the material?
380 00:34:00,640 00:34:04,040 It comes from a love of the material. It comes from a love of the material.
381 00:34:04,200 00:34:08,719 I had it, both as a writer and as a book collector. I had it, both as a writer and as a book collector.
382 00:34:08,880 00:34:13,239 So I had bought books before and I knew sellers- So I had bought books before and I knew sellers-
383 00:34:13,320 00:34:17,440 -which has helped build the collections. -which has helped build the collections.
384 00:34:17,520 00:34:22,560 Another interesting thing is how collectors shape the collections- Another interesting thing is how collectors shape the collections-
385 00:34:22,639 00:34:26,280 -which ends up in the various archives. -which ends up in the various archives.
386 00:34:26,360 00:34:30,520 We've told about the lives of black people - We've told about the lives of black people -
387 00:34:30,600 00:34:35,199 -creativity and cultural significance for almost a century. -creativity and cultural significance for almost a century.
388 00:34:35,280 00:34:42,480 But I do not know if we have fully understood the significance of all that. But I do not know if we have fully understood the significance of all that.
389 00:34:42,639 00:34:47,199 MY SOUL HAS BECOME AS DEEP AS THE RIVERS MY SOUL HAS BECOME AS DEEP AS THE RIVERS
390 00:34:56,320 00:35:02,560 I did not think I should be a bookseller. I had no idea. I did not think I should be a bookseller. I had no idea.
391 00:35:04,640 00:35:11,040 After high school, I got a job with JN Bartfield on 57th Street. After high school, I got a job with JN Bartfield on 57th Street.
392 00:35:11,120 00:35:13,880 I was a specialist in finely bound sets. I was a specialist in finely bound sets.
393 00:35:14,040 00:35:20,400 I worked there for 13 years before I decided to quit. I worked there for 13 years before I decided to quit.
394 00:35:20,560 00:35:27,280 I started going to the estate at five-six in the morning. I started going to the estate at five-six in the morning.
395 00:35:27,440 00:35:32,600 In the beginning, I lived in my parents' basement in the Bronx. In the beginning, I lived in my parents' basement in the Bronx.
396 00:35:33,520 00:35:39,280 I went to an estate in Connecticut and I was at the front of the queue. I went to an estate in Connecticut and I was at the front of the queue.
397 00:35:39,360 00:35:44,040 I entered the room and on the bookshelf I saw- I entered the room and on the bookshelf I saw-
398 00:35:44,120 00:35:49,640 -a fantastic set of Balzac's works, about 40 volumes. -a fantastic set of Balzac's works, about 40 volumes.
399 00:35:49,720 00:35:54,120 The whole set cost $ 200. The whole set cost $ 200.
400 00:35:54,200 00:35:58,640 I ran there and shouted, "They are mine!" I ran there and shouted, "They are mine!"
401 00:35:58,720 00:36:02,480 "Do not touch them! They are mine!" What a find! "Do not touch them! They are mine!" What a find!
402 00:36:02,640 00:36:07,520 I will never forget that. That's how it all started. I will never forget that. That's how it all started.
403 00:36:09,440 00:36:15,360 We trade in luxury goods. Books are still underrated. We trade in luxury goods. Books are still underrated.
404 00:36:15,520 00:36:21,240 People do not understand how much work lies in the binding. People do not understand how much work lies in the binding.
405 00:36:21,320 00:36:27,200 Leather bindings must be maintained. People can not find out. Leather bindings must be maintained. People can not find out.
406 00:36:28,120 00:36:35,160 If they are in good condition, it is enough to give them oil every 5 to 10 years. If they are in good condition, it is enough to give them oil every 5 to 10 years.
407 00:36:41,040 00:36:46,480 The first thing people ask is, "What makes a book rare?" The first thing people ask is, "What makes a book rare?"
408 00:36:46,560 00:36:51,400 This means they are hard to find and are coveted. This means they are hard to find and are coveted.
409 00:36:52,400 00:36:56,240 There are three kinds of people who buy books. There are three kinds of people who buy books.
410 00:36:56,400 00:37:00,160 Private collectors, dealers filling their warehouses Private collectors, dealers filling their warehouses
411 00:37:00,320 00:37:02,600 and institutions. and institutions.
412 00:37:02,760 00:37:08,360 The problem today is that there are fewer and fewer private collectors. The problem today is that there are fewer and fewer private collectors.
413 00:37:11,040 00:37:14,880 We talked about the smell of old books- We talked about the smell of old books-
414 00:37:14,960 00:37:19,280 -and about the magic that the beautiful editions radiate. -and about the magic that the beautiful editions radiate.
415 00:37:19,440 00:37:23,000 It was interesting how they set the prices. It was interesting how they set the prices.
416 00:37:23,160 00:37:28,640 We have specific interests, so if we find something, we buy it. We have specific interests, so if we find something, we buy it.
417 00:37:28,720 00:37:31,600 If it is not too expensive. If it is not too expensive.
418 00:37:31,760 00:37:36,160 I forgot the money at home, and it's good the same- I forgot the money at home, and it's good the same-
419 00:37:36,240 00:37:38,080 -because I was tempted. -because I was tempted.
420 00:38:23,280 00:38:26,640 My parents were interested in antiques- My parents were interested in antiques-
421 00:38:26,720 00:38:33,400 -and I got five cents every time I behaved nicely in a store. -and I got five cents every time I behaved nicely in a store.
422 00:38:33,480 00:38:38,120 Eventually, I had enough money to buy a book. Eventually, I had enough money to buy a book.
423 00:38:39,240 00:38:43,440 I really did not want to collect rare books- I really did not want to collect rare books-
424 00:38:43,600 00:38:48,080 -but I liked Frank Baum's stories. -but I liked Frank Baum's stories.
425 00:38:48,240 00:38:51,600 When I was 12 years old- When I was 12 years old-
426 00:38:51,680 00:38:58,400 -Columbia University had an exhibition on Frank Baum's works. -Columbia University had an exhibition on Frank Baum's works.
427 00:38:58,480 00:39:03,600 They were looking for some things they had not been able to get. They were looking for some things they had not been able to get.
428 00:39:03,680 00:39:11,120 My parents saw the article and I became the youngest lender My parents saw the article and I became the youngest lender
429 00:39:11,200 00:39:14,640 -to Columbia University ever. -to Columbia University ever.
430 00:39:15,440 00:39:21,320 At that time, children's books were not considered At that time, children's books were not considered
431 00:39:21,400 00:39:26,600 -as something special. There were books like "Alice in Wonderland" - -as something special. There were books like "Alice in Wonderland" -
432 00:39:26,680 00:39:32,520 -but the one who sold his first edition of "The Wizard of Oz" to me- -but the one who sold his first edition of "The Wizard of Oz" to me-
433 00:39:32,600 00:39:35,480 -did not know it was a first edition. -did not know it was a first edition.
434 00:39:35,560 00:39:37,680 It cost five dollars. It cost five dollars.
435 00:39:37,760 00:39:42,640 I love working with books. It never felt like work. I love working with books. It never felt like work.
436 00:39:42,720 00:39:49,360 In 1967, Maurice Sendak searched for early books on mechanics. In 1967, Maurice Sendak searched for early books on mechanics.
437 00:39:49,440 00:39:51,760 -by Lothar Meggendorfer. -by Lothar Meggendorfer.
438 00:39:51,840 00:39:57,880 I had some pieces and we eventually became friends. I had some pieces and we eventually became friends.
439 00:39:57,960 00:40:04,920 By the end of 1969, I had just started a company By the end of 1969, I had just started a company
440 00:40:05,000 00:40:11,960 -and wanted Maurice Sendak to illustrate the catalog cover. -and wanted Maurice Sendak to illustrate the catalog cover.
441 00:40:12,120 00:40:17,320 And he agreed. And Maurice's genius And he agreed. And Maurice's genius
442 00:40:17,400 00:40:20,280 -when he made caricatures, -when he made caricatures,
443 00:40:20,440 00:40:24,880 -that he drew both me and my companion as teddy bears. -that he drew both me and my companion as teddy bears.
444 00:40:24,960 00:40:30,800 I was the bear dressed in the vest. I was the bear dressed in the vest.
445 00:40:30,960 00:40:37,080 And that was the beginning of a much closer friendship. And that was the beginning of a much closer friendship.
446 00:40:40,200 00:40:47,360 This is our gallery on Broadway. Today it is used for storage. This is our gallery on Broadway. Today it is used for storage.
447 00:40:47,520 00:40:54,080 Here are originals by Maurice Sendak and our other collectibles. Here are originals by Maurice Sendak and our other collectibles.
448 00:40:54,240 00:40:58,360 Namely, Chinese propaganda with President Mao. Namely, Chinese propaganda with President Mao.
449 00:40:58,440 00:41:03,680 Maurice once came by and he called it Maurice once came by and he called it
450 00:41:03,840 00:41:09,360 -a Mao and Mo exhibition. Mao on the one hand, Sendak on the other. -a Mao and Mo exhibition. Mao on the one hand, Sendak on the other.
451 00:41:09,440 00:41:11,400 Mo is his nickname. Mo is his nickname.
452 00:41:16,040 00:41:21,160 "A book is so much more than just reading it." Maurice Sendak. "A book is so much more than just reading it." Maurice Sendak.
453 00:41:22,760 00:41:29,240 I bought the most expensive American book ever for a customer in 1989. I bought the most expensive American book ever for a customer in 1989.
454 00:41:29,320 00:41:31,720 Poe's first book, "Tamerlane". Poe's first book, "Tamerlane".
455 00:41:31,880 00:41:35,920 It is called the black tulip in American literature. It is called the black tulip in American literature.
456 00:41:36,000 00:41:39,600 There are only a handful of it. There are only a handful of it.
457 00:41:39,680 00:41:44,440 Someone had bought it at a thrift store for $ 15. Someone had bought it at a thrift store for $ 15.
458 00:41:44,600 00:41:47,160 I gave $ 200,000 for it. I gave $ 200,000 for it.
459 00:41:48,400 00:41:52,600 It is a good table saver. Someone had put a glass on the It is a good table saver. Someone had put a glass on the
460 00:41:52,680 00:41:56,280 -and left a circle on the cover. -and left a circle on the cover.
461 00:41:59,760 00:42:06,000 I'll probably get a wider selection in than most in the industry. I'll probably get a wider selection in than most in the industry.
462 00:42:06,080 00:42:10,840 For example, I have handled books bound with human skin. For example, I have handled books bound with human skin.
463 00:42:10,920 00:42:16,040 I have had two such books. Both were English editions I have had two such books. Both were English editions
464 00:42:16,120 00:42:19,440 -of Hans Holbein's "Dance of Death". -of Hans Holbein's "Dance of Death".
465 00:42:19,520 00:42:25,760 One was bound by George Sutcliffe, the great English bookbinder. One was bound by George Sutcliffe, the great English bookbinder.
466 00:42:25,840 00:42:30,680 -and on the cover there was a skull made of bones and teeth. -and on the cover there was a skull made of bones and teeth.
467 00:42:30,760 00:42:35,760 It was a powerful philosophical object, and some human- It was a powerful philosophical object, and some human-
468 00:42:35,840 00:42:41,920 -would not get near it while others would touch it. -would not get near it while others would touch it.
469 00:42:42,000 00:42:46,560 These gemstone bindings are the most beautiful in world history. These gemstone bindings are the most beautiful in world history.
470 00:42:46,720 00:42:50,920 The book was taken to Sangorski & Sutcliffe- The book was taken to Sangorski & Sutcliffe-
471 00:42:51,000 00:42:57,240 -which encapsulated it in 24 carat gold and adorned it with precious stones. -which encapsulated it in 24 carat gold and adorned it with precious stones.
472 00:42:57,320 00:43:00,560 The book was opened between the gold. The book was opened between the gold.
473 00:43:03,840 00:43:09,480 Not many people know that there are waves of fashion in our industry as well. Not many people know that there are waves of fashion in our industry as well.
474 00:43:09,640 00:43:15,520 But there was a time when a perfect cover was very in. But there was a time when a perfect cover was very in.
475 00:43:15,600 00:43:18,400 In the 80s and early 90s. In the 80s and early 90s.
476 00:43:19,480 00:43:25,080 In the beginning, they were just to protect the book from dust. In the beginning, they were just to protect the book from dust.
477 00:43:25,240 00:43:29,000 It was thrown away when one bought the book. It was thrown away when one bought the book.
478 00:43:30,120 00:43:35,040 Let's take "The Great Gatsby" by F. Scott Fitzgerald. Let's take "The Great Gatsby" by F. Scott Fitzgerald.
479 00:43:35,200 00:43:40,520 A first edition in fine condition costs $ 5,000. A first edition in fine condition costs $ 5,000.
480 00:43:40,680 00:43:47,920 A first edition with a worn cover costs $ 15,000. A first edition with a worn cover costs $ 15,000.
481 00:43:48,080 00:43:54,880 A first edition with a cover in good condition costs $ 150,000. A first edition with a cover in good condition costs $ 150,000.
482 00:43:55,040 00:43:58,240 And that's probably due to And that's probably due to
483 00:43:58,320 00:44:03,200 -that the cover is considered art. -that the cover is considered art.
484 00:44:04,280 00:44:07,960 Thank God for collectors who kept the covers- Thank God for collectors who kept the covers-
485 00:44:08,040 00:44:14,760 and made us aware of their information value. and made us aware of their information value.
486 00:44:14,920 00:44:19,480 The first book says something completely different from the tenth book. The first book says something completely different from the tenth book.
487 00:44:19,560 00:44:24,280 -and certain biographical information is sometimes found only there. -and certain biographical information is sometimes found only there.
488 00:44:24,440 00:44:27,880 We're trying to bind a book in Mylar. We're trying to bind a book in Mylar.
489 00:44:30,000 00:44:34,280 We use the 5 mm variant. We use the 5 mm variant.
490 00:44:44,960 00:44:50,960 And with a little luck ... it fits the book perfectly. And with a little luck ... it fits the book perfectly.
491 00:44:51,120 00:44:56,160 I have heard people say that if a book is signed to a particular I have heard people say that if a book is signed to a particular
492 00:44:56,240 00:45:01,080 -and that person is known, the value of the book increases. -and that person is known, the value of the book increases.
493 00:45:01,160 00:45:07,040 If it is signed to an unknown person, the book is worth less. If it is signed to an unknown person, the book is worth less.
494 00:45:07,200 00:45:09,920 But I do not understand that at all. But I do not understand that at all.
495 00:45:12,240 00:45:16,200 Books signed by the author- Books signed by the author-
496 00:45:16,280 00:45:22,720 -to an important person suddenly became extremely important. -to an important person suddenly became extremely important.
497 00:45:22,800 00:45:28,280 In the past, people were looking for first editions with nice covers. In the past, people were looking for first editions with nice covers.
498 00:45:28,440 00:45:32,840 -but now it became more important with important signatures. -but now it became more important with important signatures.
499 00:45:33,000 00:45:35,840 I like all interesting books- I like all interesting books-
500 00:45:36,000 00:45:40,360 -but I became interested in books with a special story. -but I became interested in books with a special story.
501 00:45:40,520 00:45:44,880 The best books seem to have been run over by a bus. The best books seem to have been run over by a bus.
502 00:45:45,040 00:45:47,600 But it has to be the right bus. But it has to be the right bus.
503 00:45:47,680 00:45:54,320 That some books are rare is not because everyone wants those books. That some books are rare is not because everyone wants those books.
504 00:45:54,400 00:45:57,760 Those who appreciate rare book- Those who appreciate rare book-
505 00:45:57,840 00:46:01,280 -are as rare as the books themselves. -are as rare as the books themselves.
506 00:46:03,840 00:46:09,840 We start bidding on the 45,000 Enigma machine. We start bidding on the 45,000 Enigma machine.
507 00:46:10,000 00:46:12,120 50.000. 55.000. 50.000. 55.000.
508 00:46:12,200 00:46:16,080 Rare books fall into the category of Rare books fall into the category of
509 00:46:16,240 00:46:22,120 objects of antiquarian interest. They do not fit into the art category- objects of antiquarian interest. They do not fit into the art category-
510 00:46:22,200 00:46:26,440 -or in the furniture category and they are not the same customers- -or in the furniture category and they are not the same customers-
511 00:46:26,520 00:46:28,560 -which buys collectibles. -which buys collectibles.
512 00:46:29,840 00:46:33,760 Things that were once considered volatile Things that were once considered volatile
513 00:46:33,920 00:46:38,760 -are now central to the industry, and to the collections- -are now central to the industry, and to the collections-
514 00:46:38,840 00:46:42,600 -because they tell a different story. -because they tell a different story.
515 00:46:42,680 00:46:46,240 Everything falls under the heading "evidence". Everything falls under the heading "evidence".
516 00:46:46,400 00:46:49,320 I was interested in early I was interested in early
517 00:46:49,400 00:46:53,360 -the broad definition of historical evidence. -the broad definition of historical evidence.
518 00:46:53,520 00:46:59,440 At that time, many traditional historians claimed At that time, many traditional historians claimed
519 00:46:59,600 00:47:03,960 -that the visual material did not constitute evidence. -that the visual material did not constitute evidence.
520 00:47:05,920 00:47:12,800 A good bookseller is a different kind of discoverer and storyteller. A good bookseller is a different kind of discoverer and storyteller.
521 00:47:13,680 00:47:20,520 They see the raw material and make important contextual contributions. They see the raw material and make important contextual contributions.
522 00:47:20,680 00:47:23,440 Therefore, they save their descriptions- Therefore, they save their descriptions-
523 00:47:23,520 00:47:29,760 -to not lose all the history they have researched. -to not lose all the history they have researched.
524 00:47:30,000 00:48:30,000 PeG@SuS Urang Sunda Asli PeG@SuS Urang Sunda Asli
525 00:47:29,920 00:47:36,000 I am suspicious of people who deal with the sale of rare books- I am suspicious of people who deal with the sale of rare books-
526 00:47:36,080 00:47:40,520 -as we were a kind of guardians of a holy flame. -as we were a kind of guardians of a holy flame.
527 00:47:40,680 00:47:45,800 It's too light, too superficial. But it is important. It's too light, too superficial. But it is important.
528 00:47:47,200 00:47:54,200 I want to strike a blow for the printed material in a digital world. I want to strike a blow for the printed material in a digital world.
529 00:47:54,280 00:48:00,000 Physical objects often contain evidence that is a solid component. Physical objects often contain evidence that is a solid component.
530 00:48:00,080 00:48:03,920 Such as ownership, listing Such as ownership, listing
531 00:48:04,080 00:48:09,680 -how the book is processed, type of binding, paper quality. -how the book is processed, type of binding, paper quality.
532 00:48:09,840 00:48:13,680 You can find things in the physical edition of the book- You can find things in the physical edition of the book-
533 00:48:13,760 00:48:16,520 -which tells their own story. -which tells their own story.
534 00:48:16,600 00:48:21,280 One of my oldest friends and clients is Michael Zinman. One of my oldest friends and clients is Michael Zinman.
535 00:48:21,360 00:48:26,640 He has one of the best collections of early printed material from the United States. He has one of the best collections of early printed material from the United States.
536 00:48:26,720 00:48:32,720 I asked myself what was left of early printed editions. I asked myself what was left of early printed editions.
537 00:48:32,800 00:48:37,600 I could only find out by buying, looking and asking. I could only find out by buying, looking and asking.
538 00:48:37,760 00:48:43,600 I never hesitated to buy a second or third copy of the same book. I never hesitated to buy a second or third copy of the same book.
539 00:48:43,760 00:48:48,840 Or a fourth copy. I just kept buying. And along the way Or a fourth copy. I just kept buying. And along the way
540 00:48:48,920 00:48:53,800 -I started comparing the editions. And then you learn something. -I started comparing the editions. And then you learn something.
541 00:48:54,680 00:49:00,160 Many variations can be found and conclusions can be drawn Many variations can be found and conclusions can be drawn
542 00:49:00,240 00:49:04,800 -which you would never have been able to if you had only one perfect copy. -which you would never have been able to if you had only one perfect copy.
543 00:49:04,960 00:49:10,640 That was our "critical mass" theory. By collecting our material That was our "critical mass" theory. By collecting our material
544 00:49:10,800 00:49:15,160 -and see what patterns we could find- -and see what patterns we could find-
545 00:49:15,320 00:49:18,360 -could we build better theses- -could we build better theses-
546 00:49:18,520 00:49:24,400 -even if we started with an idea of ​​what we would find and prove it. -even if we started with an idea of ​​what we would find and prove it.
547 00:49:29,360 00:49:33,320 We're in Hackettstown, New Jersey, where they make M & M's. We're in Hackettstown, New Jersey, where they make M & M's.
548 00:49:33,480 00:49:36,920 But unfortunately you are not allowed to visit the factory. But unfortunately you are not allowed to visit the factory.
549 00:49:38,160 00:49:40,200 We have our warehouses here. We have our warehouses here.
550 00:49:42,480 00:49:45,840 Approximately 300,000 books in three different buildings. Approximately 300,000 books in three different buildings.
551 00:49:45,920 00:49:50,080 Everything from valuable books to books for $ 20. Everything from valuable books to books for $ 20.
552 00:49:50,160 00:49:53,280 Each shelf can tell a story. Each shelf can tell a story.
553 00:49:53,440 00:49:58,200 I know where every single book comes from and the story behind it. I know where every single book comes from and the story behind it.
554 00:49:58,360 00:50:01,520 We have some space left up there. We have some space left up there.
555 00:50:01,600 00:50:05,440 -Then he buys another warehouse. -No. -Then he buys another warehouse. -No.
556 00:50:05,520 00:50:11,200 - Does anyone have more books? -Empty Congalton is shown close by. - Does anyone have more books? -Empty Congalton is shown close by.
557 00:50:12,200 00:50:17,600 -But this is enough. -It happens that books disappear. -But this is enough. -It happens that books disappear.
558 00:50:20,360 00:50:26,920 Each department has ten shelves, and here are eight or nine departments. Each department has ten shelves, and here are eight or nine departments.
559 00:50:27,000 00:50:32,720 There's a lot of poetry. Nine departments a thousand times or even more. There's a lot of poetry. Nine departments a thousand times or even more.
560 00:50:32,800 00:50:38,040 Poetry books are thin. So we have 10,000 poetry books here. Poetry books are thin. So we have 10,000 poetry books here.
561 00:50:38,920 00:50:43,080 He thinks poetry is on the way back. I'm not sure. He thinks poetry is on the way back. I'm not sure.
562 00:50:46,480 00:50:48,560 All this is Whistler. All this is Whistler.
563 00:50:51,160 00:50:55,680 Bookbinding. Here we have an unusual title. Bookbinding. Here we have an unusual title.
564 00:50:55,760 00:51:00,120 "Amish Love". Så... "Amish Love". Så...
565 00:51:00,200 00:51:04,920 But no pictures. Yes, there are some pictures. But no pictures. Yes, there are some pictures.
566 00:51:06,120 00:51:08,200 What a picture! What a picture!
567 00:51:09,960 00:51:14,920 He collects everything. A Masonic throne. He collects everything. A Masonic throne.
568 00:51:15,000 00:51:18,560 Tribal masks from the gods know where. Tribal masks from the gods know where.
569 00:51:21,880 00:51:25,920 The seagulls are also interesting. The seagulls are also interesting.
570 00:51:26,080 00:51:31,560 It's a pure treasure hunt. Especially right here. You never know what you will find. It's a pure treasure hunt. Especially right here. You never know what you will find.
571 00:51:32,800 00:51:38,600 Some say that one should not assemble oneself and compete with the customers. Some say that one should not assemble oneself and compete with the customers.
572 00:51:38,680 00:51:42,680 I try to avoid it, but I love to collect. I try to avoid it, but I love to collect.
573 00:51:42,760 00:51:48,040 And I have no problem selling the books. There we have the aircraft collection. And I have no problem selling the books. There we have the aircraft collection.
574 00:51:48,200 00:51:51,080 Amelia Earhart. Amelia Earhart.
575 00:51:52,440 00:51:56,000 -A piece of the Hindenburg airship. -Where is it? -A piece of the Hindenburg airship. -Where is it?
576 00:51:56,080 00:51:58,520 At the end of this time. At the end of this time.
577 00:51:58,680 00:52:01,720 I have a large collection of wallets. I have a large collection of wallets.
578 00:52:04,360 00:52:07,080 Up there. And hats. Oh my gosh! Up there. And hats. Oh my gosh!
579 00:52:08,360 00:52:11,480 "When he creeps in, I call Sotheby's." "When he creeps in, I call Sotheby's."
580 00:52:11,560 00:52:13,720 Heard at the New York Book Fair. Heard at the New York Book Fair.
581 00:52:13,880 00:52:17,920 I have 550. 600, here in the room. I have 550. 600, here in the room.
582 00:52:18,000 00:52:21,840 Rare books have been traded for centuries. Rare books have been traded for centuries.
583 00:52:22,000 00:52:27,840 The first auctions in modern times were book auctions in the 17th century. The first auctions in modern times were book auctions in the 17th century.
584 00:52:28,000 00:52:30,640 Now it's completely different. Now it's completely different.
585 00:52:30,720 00:52:35,480 First came the phone bids and then the internet bids. First came the phone bids and then the internet bids.
586 00:52:35,640 00:52:40,880 I visit a lot of auctions and sometimes there are only three people. I visit a lot of auctions and sometimes there are only three people.
587 00:52:41,040 00:52:46,000 I'm one of them, and the auctioneer is another. I'm one of them, and the auctioneer is another.
588 00:52:46,080 00:52:48,400 The rest are staff. The rest are staff.
589 00:52:48,560 00:52:50,920 19.000. 20.000. 19.000. 20.000.
590 00:52:51,000 00:52:54,440 To the Frank Siebert auction in 1999- To the Frank Siebert auction in 1999-
591 00:52:54,520 00:53:00,320 was the strategy that when one could look beyond space- was the strategy that when one could look beyond space-
592 00:53:00,480 00:53:03,880 -and see the one who bid against one- -and see the one who bid against one-
593 00:53:04,040 00:53:07,080 -another than if the other party bid over the phone. -another than if the other party bid over the phone.
594 00:53:07,240 00:53:10,680 I have 300,000 on the right. I have 300,000 on the right.
595 00:53:10,760 00:53:15,840 If you are there, you get a better sense of the rhythm. If you are there, you get a better sense of the rhythm.
596 00:53:15,920 00:53:20,000 You have the attention of the auctioneer and you can speed it up. You have the attention of the auctioneer and you can speed it up.
597 00:53:20,080 00:53:24,440 -or slow down. One can psyche the opponents. -or slow down. One can psyche the opponents.
598 00:53:24,600 00:53:29,120 Last chance. I have 360,000 on the right. Last chance. I have 360,000 on the right.
599 00:53:29,520 00:53:33,000 360,000, number 833. Thank you very much. 360,000, number 833. Thank you very much.
600 00:53:34,360 00:53:37,480 I am fascinated by the history of the auctions- I am fascinated by the history of the auctions-
601 00:53:37,560 00:53:40,920 -and of what drives the participants. -and of what drives the participants.
602 00:53:41,840 00:53:45,920 If you are reading a beginner's guide to auctioning If you are reading a beginner's guide to auctioning
603 00:53:46,000 00:53:49,720 -where are the basic rules- -where are the basic rules-
604 00:53:49,800 00:53:57,280 -It will always say that you must have an amount limit and stick to it. -It will always say that you must have an amount limit and stick to it.
605 00:53:57,360 00:54:01,080 It sounds reasonable until one is there. It sounds reasonable until one is there.
606 00:54:01,160 00:54:08,480 I have experienced it myself. If I really want something- I have experienced it myself. If I really want something-
607 00:54:08,560 00:54:11,760 -so my limit is my bank balance. -so my limit is my bank balance.
608 00:54:11,920 00:54:16,240 How much am I willing to starve because I'm flat? How much am I willing to starve because I'm flat?
609 00:54:17,160 00:54:23,160 Ownership, possession and competition make people do unexpected things Ownership, possession and competition make people do unexpected things
610 00:54:23,240 00:54:25,680 - which is great to see from the podium. - which is great to see from the podium.
611 00:54:32,360 00:54:36,480 Can you tell us how you ended up in the industry? Can you tell us how you ended up in the industry?
612 00:54:36,560 00:54:41,120 The answer consists of one word: nepotism. The answer consists of one word: nepotism.
613 00:54:41,480 00:54:46,880 I'm a third generation antique bookstore. I'm a third generation antique bookstore.
614 00:54:47,040 00:54:52,480 My grandfather came to London in 1888 and got a job at Pickering & Chatto. My grandfather came to London in 1888 and got a job at Pickering & Chatto.
615 00:54:52,560 00:54:56,200 His brothers had booksellers in Cork and Dublin. His brothers had booksellers in Cork and Dublin.
616 00:54:56,360 00:55:01,240 Joyce mentions one of them in "Dubliners". Joyce mentions one of them in "Dubliners".
617 00:55:01,320 00:55:04,680 "Almost every day when he finished teaching "Almost every day when he finished teaching
618 00:55:04,760 00:55:08,440 -he went along the quay to the antique shop. " -he went along the quay to the antique shop. "
619 00:55:08,520 00:55:13,240 "Hickey's on Bachelor's Walk, Webb's or Massey's on Anston's Quay- "Hickey's on Bachelor's Walk, Webb's or Massey's on Anston's Quay-
620 00:55:13,320 00:55:16,680 -or to O'Clohissey's in the alley. " -or to O'Clohissey's in the alley. "
621 00:55:16,840 00:55:22,520 To give an idea of ​​what was available in the 1920s- To give an idea of ​​what was available in the 1920s-
622 00:55:22,600 00:55:28,760 -can you take the original script for "Alice in Wonderland". -can you take the original script for "Alice in Wonderland".
623 00:55:29,520 00:55:35,200 Alice Liddell, later Mrs. Hargreaves, the book's main character Alice Liddell, later Mrs. Hargreaves, the book's main character
624 00:55:35,360 00:55:42,240 -sold the manuscript at Sotheby's in 1928 and my grandfather was there. -sold the manuscript at Sotheby's in 1928 and my grandfather was there.
625 00:55:42,320 00:55:47,080 Rosenbach bought it for £ 15,400. Rosenbach bought it for £ 15,400.
626 00:55:48,360 00:55:50,200 I 1958- I 1958-
627 00:55:50,280 00:55:56,040 - my father started the actual book department at Christie's. - my father started the actual book department at Christie's.
628 00:55:56,200 00:56:00,160 And in 1964, I became the department's third employee. And in 1964, I became the department's third employee.
629 00:56:01,080 00:56:07,360 In 1978, I sold my first Gutenberg Bible for $ 2.2 million. dollars. In 1978, I sold my first Gutenberg Bible for $ 2.2 million. dollars.
630 00:56:07,520 00:56:11,800 It was considered a huge amount. And in 1980- It was considered a huge amount. And in 1980-
631 00:56:11,880 00:56:16,600 was then sold to Vincis "Codex Leicester" to Armand Hammer- was then sold to Vincis "Codex Leicester" to Armand Hammer-
632 00:56:16,680 00:56:20,080 -for what now amounts to five million dollars. -for what now amounts to five million dollars.
633 00:56:20,240 00:56:26,320 It was something of a disappointment. It was called a collection of drawings- It was something of a disappointment. It was called a collection of drawings-
634 00:56:26,400 00:56:30,000 and not a scientific manuscript. and not a scientific manuscript.
635 00:56:30,160 00:56:36,120 When it was sold again in 1994, interest in science had increased. When it was sold again in 1994, interest in science had increased.
636 00:56:36,280 00:56:39,640 "Codex Hammer" af Leonardo da Vinci. "Codex Hammer" af Leonardo da Vinci.
637 00:56:39,720 00:56:46,240 We start at $ 5,500 ... We start at $ 5.5 million. Good start. We start at $ 5,500 ... We start at $ 5.5 million. Good start.
638 00:56:46,320 00:56:50,560 I messed it up and people laughed. I messed it up and people laughed.
639 00:56:50,720 00:56:54,600 We have 14 million. 15 million over the phone. We have 14 million. 15 million over the phone.
640 00:56:54,680 00:56:59,160 The reservation price was 15 million. Then there was the second row- The reservation price was 15 million. Then there was the second row-
641 00:56:59,240 00:57:02,640 - against the phone. Only two bidders. - against the phone. Only two bidders.
642 00:57:02,800 00:57:07,800 We have 23.5 million in this room. 24 million over the phone. We have 23.5 million in this room. 24 million over the phone.
643 00:57:09,200 00:57:10,760 25 million. 25 million.
644 00:57:10,840 00:57:15,680 Bill Gates did not come and look at the script. He bought it unseen. Bill Gates did not come and look at the script. He bought it unseen.
645 00:57:15,840 00:57:22,160 $ 28 million over the phone. Last chance. 28 million. Thanks. $ 28 million over the phone. Last chance. 28 million. Thanks.
646 00:57:23,200 00:57:27,240 It is still today the highest auction price It is still today the highest auction price
647 00:57:27,320 00:57:30,080 -for a book or a manuscript. -for a book or a manuscript.
648 00:57:30,160 00:57:34,240 There is a big difference between book auctions and art auctions. There is a big difference between book auctions and art auctions.
649 00:57:34,320 00:57:40,440 One clear difference is that books are not unique. One clear difference is that books are not unique.
650 00:57:40,600 00:57:47,640 A painting is completely unique. There are then very rare books- A painting is completely unique. There are then very rare books-
651 00:57:47,800 00:57:53,600 -but with the exception of illuminated manuscripts and medieval editions- -but with the exception of illuminated manuscripts and medieval editions-
652 00:57:53,680 00:57:58,680 -which were unique, there are always more copies. -which were unique, there are always more copies.
653 00:57:58,840 00:58:01,280 And that affects the price. And that affects the price.
654 00:58:01,360 00:58:06,440 Antique shops have such deep roots in history- Antique shops have such deep roots in history-
655 00:58:06,520 00:58:11,880 -that it is unparalleled. It has a completely different weight. -that it is unparalleled. It has a completely different weight.
656 00:58:12,920 00:58:17,520 Books are not trophies like other artefacts can be. Books are not trophies like other artefacts can be.
657 00:58:17,680 00:58:21,960 One more bid. 400 million! One more bid. 400 million!
658 00:58:22,120 00:58:28,520 Collecting art is about being able to say, "It's not yours." Collecting art is about being able to say, "It's not yours."
659 00:58:28,600 00:58:35,400 "By owning this image, I deny you the right to own it." "By owning this image, I deny you the right to own it."
660 00:58:35,480 00:58:39,720 "I'm better than you because you can not have it. It's mine." "I'm better than you because you can not have it. It's mine."
661 00:58:40,760 00:58:45,960 People who collect rare books have deeply personal ties- People who collect rare books have deeply personal ties-
662 00:58:46,040 00:58:48,160 -to the material they collect. -to the material they collect.
663 00:58:48,320 00:58:53,040 The books are in a library, so you almost have to be invited- The books are in a library, so you almost have to be invited-
664 00:58:53,120 00:58:55,400 -into the collector's mind. -into the collector's mind.
665 00:58:56,320 00:59:01,440 The reason why there are more art collectors than book collectors The reason why there are more art collectors than book collectors
666 00:59:01,520 00:59:04,600 -is that one can showcase his wealth. -is that one can showcase his wealth.
667 00:59:04,680 00:59:12,080 It's boring and I've never met an arrogant book speculator. It's boring and I've never met an arrogant book speculator.
668 00:59:12,160 00:59:16,000 A person who owns houses all over the world- A person who owns houses all over the world-
669 00:59:16,080 00:59:21,520 -because he bought James Bond novels at just the right time. -because he bought James Bond novels at just the right time.
670 00:59:21,680 00:59:26,080 When I came to New York, it was called the art world. When I came to New York, it was called the art world.
671 00:59:26,160 00:59:29,280 Now it is called the art market. Now it is called the art market.
672 00:59:35,480 00:59:38,600 I started in the newspaper business. I started in the newspaper business.
673 00:59:38,680 00:59:41,600 I worked at AB Bookman's Weekly. I worked at AB Bookman's Weekly.
674 00:59:41,760 00:59:46,640 The magazine that everyone in the industry read. The magazine that everyone in the industry read.
675 00:59:46,800 00:59:51,080 I was the editor-in-chief and writer, and I was fired first. I was the editor-in-chief and writer, and I was fired first.
676 00:59:51,160 00:59:53,080 -when the magazine was closed. -when the magazine was closed.
677 00:59:53,240 00:59:57,680 The owner had misjudged the importance of the internet. The owner had misjudged the importance of the internet.
678 00:59:57,760 01:00:04,080 He rejected a partnership with a new player in the market. He rejected a partnership with a new player in the market.
679 01:00:04,160 01:00:07,480 Jeff Bezos and Amazon. Jeff Bezos and Amazon.
680 01:00:07,560 01:00:11,520 This summer I finished my book. This summer I finished my book.
681 01:00:11,680 01:00:15,440 It's called "A Conversation That Is Bigger Than the Universe". It's called "A Conversation That Is Bigger Than the Universe".
682 01:00:15,520 01:00:19,360 It's about an exhibition at The Grolier Club. It's about an exhibition at The Grolier Club.
683 01:00:19,440 01:00:24,840 It's based on the books I've been reading and thinking about for the last 25 years. It's based on the books I've been reading and thinking about for the last 25 years.
684 01:00:24,920 01:00:29,920 To me, Mary Shelley is the starting point of science fiction. To me, Mary Shelley is the starting point of science fiction.
685 01:00:31,880 01:00:36,440 One of the metaphors I play with during my "conversations" - One of the metaphors I play with during my "conversations" -
686 01:00:36,600 01:00:41,080 -is a walk in the woods. That's what I love most. -is a walk in the woods. That's what I love most.
687 01:00:41,160 01:00:45,320 I have no goal when I go, but I always lead- I have no goal when I go, but I always lead-
688 01:00:45,400 01:00:48,560 -after edible mushrooms. -after edible mushrooms.
689 01:00:48,640 01:00:52,640 Science fiction can seem like a forest for the uninitiated. Science fiction can seem like a forest for the uninitiated.
690 01:00:52,720 01:00:59,800 -but there are paths and one can learn to recognize the trees. -but there are paths and one can learn to recognize the trees.
691 01:00:59,880 01:01:03,400 It also makes me think of science fiction- It also makes me think of science fiction-
692 01:01:03,480 01:01:07,800 -as a constantly innovative literary genre. -as a constantly innovative literary genre.
693 01:01:16,080 01:01:20,080 Denne bog hedder "The Smell of Telescopes." Denne bog hedder "The Smell of Telescopes."
694 01:01:20,160 01:01:24,640 It stands here almost solely because of the title. It stands here almost solely because of the title.
695 01:01:27,040 01:01:30,800 When the artist thought of the future in 1986 ... When the artist thought of the future in 1986 ...
696 01:01:30,960 01:01:34,840 Of course there are phone boxes! And robot eyes- Of course there are phone boxes! And robot eyes-
697 01:01:34,920 01:01:37,960 and portable synthesizers. and portable synthesizers.
698 01:01:38,120 01:01:43,800 Science fiction does not predict the future. It interprets the present. Science fiction does not predict the future. It interprets the present.
699 01:01:45,200 01:01:49,760 "Doesn't it bother you that you can not afford to buy the books you want?" "Doesn't it bother you that you can not afford to buy the books you want?"
700 01:01:49,840 01:01:52,360 Edith Wharton, "House of Mirth" Edith Wharton, "House of Mirth"
701 01:01:55,120 01:02:00,600 If you have the collector gene, you collect things. My dad and I have it again. If you have the collector gene, you collect things. My dad and I have it again.
702 01:02:02,200 01:02:05,640 The English do not have a word for such a space. The English do not have a word for such a space.
703 01:02:05,720 01:02:09,160 In German it is called "Wunderkammer". In German it is called "Wunderkammer".
704 01:02:09,240 01:02:12,000 A closet of wonder. A closet of wonder.
705 01:02:13,520 01:02:16,560 My library is unique in several ways. My library is unique in several ways.
706 01:02:16,640 01:02:19,400 It is the only library in the world- It is the only library in the world-
707 01:02:19,480 01:02:24,360 -which is dedicated to human imagination. -which is dedicated to human imagination.
708 01:02:26,200 01:02:31,440 It is also unique in that the space is built to fit the subject. It is also unique in that the space is built to fit the subject.
709 01:02:31,520 01:02:36,360 The subject is imagination, and the space is a tribute to the Escher- The subject is imagination, and the space is a tribute to the Escher-
710 01:02:36,520 01:02:39,680 -if imagination was good. -if imagination was good.
711 01:02:39,760 01:02:46,880 And it's one of the world's largest private libraries. And it's one of the world's largest private libraries.
712 01:02:48,120 01:02:53,480 And the books are sorted by book height. And the books are sorted by book height.
713 01:02:53,560 01:02:57,160 You can create your own connections in the library. You can create your own connections in the library.
714 01:02:57,240 01:03:01,360 I'm not saying, "Here are books on naval wars." I'm not saying, "Here are books on naval wars."
715 01:03:02,240 01:03:07,760 The library's steps into the virtual world will probably be quite painless. The library's steps into the virtual world will probably be quite painless.
716 01:03:07,920 01:03:14,920 As soon as the 3D scan is good enough, we scan books and objects. As soon as the 3D scan is good enough, we scan books and objects.
717 01:03:15,080 01:03:19,440 -so anyone can recreate them with a 3D printer. -so anyone can recreate them with a 3D printer.
718 01:03:19,600 01:03:23,560 Provided I live that long. Provided I live that long.
719 01:03:27,000 01:03:34,400 I do not know why I gather. I am shown an extreme example. I do not know why I gather. I am shown an extreme example.
720 01:03:35,600 01:03:41,520 I have tens of thousands of books. I bought a lot of defective books. I have tens of thousands of books. I bought a lot of defective books.
721 01:03:41,600 01:03:46,960 Books that were deficient, but that is a fluid definition. Books that were deficient, but that is a fluid definition.
722 01:03:47,120 01:03:53,240 What was lacking then is not today, and I earned well- What was lacking then is not today, and I earned well-
723 01:03:53,320 01:03:56,560 -on that realization. -on that realization.
724 01:03:56,640 01:04:02,960 Books are heavy. And 30,000 books are quite a lot. Books are heavy. And 30,000 books are quite a lot.
725 01:04:03,040 01:04:06,560 Carter Burden had as many books as I did. Carter Burden had as many books as I did.
726 01:04:06,640 01:04:12,240 -and he spent 1.5 million. to strengthen its apartment -and he spent 1.5 million. to strengthen its apartment
727 01:04:12,400 01:04:15,280 -to be able to have his books there. -to be able to have his books there.
728 01:04:15,360 01:04:22,320 The individual's relationship to the book is like a love affair. The individual's relationship to the book is like a love affair.
729 01:04:22,480 01:04:28,880 It is difficult to explain to others, but satisfying for oneself. It is difficult to explain to others, but satisfying for oneself.
730 01:04:28,960 01:04:34,320 My wife said, "I know I'm not the most important thing in your life." My wife said, "I know I'm not the most important thing in your life."
731 01:04:34,400 01:04:39,840 "What place do I have?" I thought a little and counted. "What place do I have?" I thought a little and counted.
732 01:04:39,920 01:04:43,920 "Sixth place". That was not the right answer- "Sixth place". That was not the right answer-
733 01:04:44,000 01:04:47,040 -but you lie as you have ridden. -but you lie as you have ridden.
734 01:04:50,800 01:04:55,800 I described myself as a hunter-gatherer because I wanted- I described myself as a hunter-gatherer because I wanted-
735 01:04:55,880 01:05:01,160 -that people should say, "Look at all those books!" -that people should say, "Look at all those books!"
736 01:05:01,320 01:05:06,040 All these women were important and their stories were important- All these women were important and their stories were important-
737 01:05:06,120 01:05:08,240 -but they were ignored. -but they were ignored.
738 01:05:09,240 01:05:13,520 I always read, but when I went to the University of Pennsylvania- I always read, but when I went to the University of Pennsylvania-
739 01:05:13,680 01:05:16,840 - I got a job at the Library Company in Philadelphia. - I got a job at the Library Company in Philadelphia.
740 01:05:17,000 01:05:20,240 And at the same time, the women's movement started. And at the same time, the women's movement started.
741 01:05:20,320 01:05:23,320 I was too lazy to do anything political- I was too lazy to do anything political-
742 01:05:23,400 01:05:30,680 -but I noticed that the women were missing in the book collection. -but I noticed that the women were missing in the book collection.
743 01:05:30,760 01:05:37,320 It was as if the women were just sitting next to her and knitting. It was as if the women were just sitting next to her and knitting.
744 01:05:37,400 01:05:42,640 It was a huge abyss. I thought it was a small gap- It was a huge abyss. I thought it was a small gap-
745 01:05:42,720 01:05:47,360 -but it was an abyss I jumped into. -but it was an abyss I jumped into.
746 01:05:47,440 01:05:53,160 I had to tell salespeople and librarians what I was looking for. I had to tell salespeople and librarians what I was looking for.
747 01:05:53,240 01:05:59,000 Most of the sellers were men. "Show me your women," I said. Most of the sellers were men. "Show me your women," I said.
748 01:05:59,080 01:06:04,120 "We have none," they said, so I came with a pile. "Now we know." "We have none," they said, so I came with a pile. "Now we know."
749 01:06:05,040 01:06:11,080 And they were not that expensive. Except the "capture of the Indians" stories. And they were not that expensive. Except the "capture of the Indians" stories.
750 01:06:11,160 01:06:16,680 My other husband was also a collector and we traveled around and found books. My other husband was also a collector and we traveled around and found books.
751 01:06:18,280 01:06:24,360 She was one of the "first to realize the importance of gathering on women. She was one of the "first to realize the importance of gathering on women.
752 01:06:24,440 01:06:31,840 Not men writing about women, even if they let a man in. Not men writing about women, even if they let a man in.
753 01:06:31,920 01:06:35,360 But mostly women writing about women. But mostly women writing about women.
754 01:06:36,480 01:06:41,400 There are almost 25,000 items. But it also includes art There are almost 25,000 items. But it also includes art
755 01:06:41,560 01:06:45,040 photographs and a lot of tinsel. photographs and a lot of tinsel.
756 01:06:45,120 01:06:49,320 If you want to exhibit a collection If you want to exhibit a collection
757 01:06:49,480 01:06:53,360 -then it gets boring if you only have a lot of books. -then it gets boring if you only have a lot of books.
758 01:06:54,480 01:06:59,200 Things like Annie Oakley's gloves are necessary. Things like Annie Oakley's gloves are necessary.
759 01:06:59,280 01:07:05,400 Caroline has an eye for the bizarre but historically important. Caroline has an eye for the bizarre but historically important.
760 01:07:05,560 01:07:09,680 And she has a network of people who can help her- And she has a network of people who can help her-
761 01:07:09,760 01:07:13,160 -to realize his life's work- -to realize his life's work-
762 01:07:13,240 01:07:17,800 -which is the largest collection of female American writers- -which is the largest collection of female American writers-
763 01:07:17,880 01:07:20,400 and historical figures. and historical figures.
764 01:07:21,680 01:07:25,440 I feel a responsibility to create the collection. I feel a responsibility to create the collection.
765 01:07:25,520 01:07:32,520 It's really fun, but now I feel it's important too- It's really fun, but now I feel it's important too-
766 01:07:32,600 01:07:36,480 -and I want others to discover that too. -and I want others to discover that too.
767 01:07:36,560 01:07:38,760 I dont have children- I dont have children-
768 01:07:38,840 01:07:45,120 -so I can spend my money on whatever I want. Hooray! -so I can spend my money on whatever I want. Hooray!
769 01:07:52,480 01:07:55,920 In 2017, we introduced a $ 1,000 premium In 2017, we introduced a $ 1,000 premium
770 01:07:56,000 01:07:59,360 -for the best book collection created by a young woman. -for the best book collection created by a young woman.
771 01:07:59,520 01:08:06,280 We wanted to encourage young people to come together, and we wanted women We wanted to encourage young people to come together, and we wanted women
772 01:08:06,360 01:08:12,000 -who collected books, should begin to see themselves as collectors. -who collected books, should begin to see themselves as collectors.
773 01:08:12,160 01:08:18,000 Many people think that one should have a lot of expensive first editions. Many people think that one should have a lot of expensive first editions.
774 01:08:18,080 01:08:22,840 But the best collections are built by people who see something others do not see. But the best collections are built by people who see something others do not see.
775 01:08:22,920 01:08:26,200 Not by people who buy the most famous books. Not by people who buy the most famous books.
776 01:08:26,279 01:08:30,720 Most people most often end up as book collectors by chance. Most people most often end up as book collectors by chance.
777 01:08:30,800 01:08:36,160 In my case, it was a job application in Las Vegas. In my case, it was a job application in Las Vegas.
778 01:08:36,319 01:08:41,000 I was to study further and become an academic- I was to study further and become an academic-
779 01:08:41,080 01:08:48,359 -but then I applied for this interesting job. And after a few weeks there- -but then I applied for this interesting job. And after a few weeks there-
780 01:08:48,439 01:08:52,359 -I felt like I would do it for the rest of my life. -I felt like I would do it for the rest of my life.
781 01:08:52,520 01:08:55,200 Book valuation is an art form. Book valuation is an art form.
782 01:08:55,359 01:08:58,040 -How are you? -Nice. And you? -How are you? -Nice. And you?
783 01:08:58,200 01:09:00,800 So I called Rebecca. So I called Rebecca.
784 01:09:01,720 01:09:07,200 Being in "Pawn Stars" brought both good and bad things. Being in "Pawn Stars" brought both good and bad things.
785 01:09:07,279 01:09:11,160 But it was an exercise in building bridges. But it was an exercise in building bridges.
786 01:09:11,319 01:09:16,080 Every night, up to seven million viewers Every night, up to seven million viewers
787 01:09:16,240 01:09:20,240 -the basics of collecting rare books. -the basics of collecting rare books.
788 01:09:20,399 01:09:25,560 If all goes well, it could bring in 14,000. If all goes well, it could bring in 14,000.
789 01:09:25,640 01:09:30,200 -Now you made it more complicated. - That's my job. -Now you made it more complicated. - That's my job.
790 01:09:30,359 01:09:34,000 It's a little funny that a Las Vegas pawnbroker It's a little funny that a Las Vegas pawnbroker
791 01:09:34,080 01:09:38,120 -used to get people to start collecting rare books. -used to get people to start collecting rare books.
792 01:09:38,200 01:09:41,200 But it is as it is. But it is as it is.
793 01:09:41,359 01:09:43,479 May I hold it up? May I hold it up?
794 01:09:43,560 01:09:47,640 But the best thing is when parents write to me- But the best thing is when parents write to me-
795 01:09:47,720 01:09:54,120 -about their daughter has seen me and wants to be a bookseller. -about their daughter has seen me and wants to be a bookseller.
796 01:09:55,920 01:10:02,680 When I started working full time in the industry in 2004- When I started working full time in the industry in 2004-
797 01:10:02,760 01:10:07,920 85% of the booksellers were men. Everyone said it would change. 85% of the booksellers were men. Everyone said it would change.
798 01:10:08,000 01:10:13,640 Lots of women were on their way in. Everything would change. Lots of women were on their way in. Everything would change.
799 01:10:13,720 01:10:19,480 But 15 years later, there are still 85% men. But 15 years later, there are still 85% men.
800 01:10:20,640 01:10:25,000 Yes, there are famous women who own their businesses- Yes, there are famous women who own their businesses-
801 01:10:25,080 01:10:31,040 -but if you consider them exceptions- -but if you consider them exceptions-
802 01:10:31,200 01:10:38,280 -then one overlooks that women have actually been in the industry all along. -then one overlooks that women have actually been in the industry all along.
803 01:10:38,360 01:10:41,280 They have been working behind the scenes. They have been working behind the scenes.
804 01:10:42,520 01:10:47,400 And they were respected for their knowledge. Mabel Zahn and Kit Currie- And they were respected for their knowledge. Mabel Zahn and Kit Currie-
805 01:10:47,560 01:10:54,200 -were significant personalities, but are often forgotten in the annals- -were significant personalities, but are often forgotten in the annals-
806 01:10:54,360 01:10:58,920 -because their name was not on the letterhead. -because their name was not on the letterhead.
807 01:11:00,040 01:11:05,840 People came in and asked the only man in the store. People came in and asked the only man in the store.
808 01:11:05,920 01:11:11,080 -The porter. -Or a customer. -The porter. -Or a customer.
809 01:11:12,560 01:11:15,560 I was the last resort. I was the last resort.
810 01:11:15,720 01:11:18,120 It does not happen that often now. It does not happen that often now.
811 01:11:19,800 01:11:26,040 The Grolier Club has long been known as a men's club. The Grolier Club has long been known as a men's club.
812 01:11:26,120 01:11:31,080 Women were first admitted in the second half of the 20th century. Women were first admitted in the second half of the 20th century.
813 01:11:31,240 01:11:37,120 We are members now, but for a long time women were not welcome there. We are members now, but for a long time women were not welcome there.
814 01:11:38,440 01:11:42,480 When Grolier allowed female members When Grolier allowed female members
815 01:11:42,560 01:11:47,680 -Rostenberg and Stern were already well established. Everyone knew them. -Rostenberg and Stern were already well established. Everyone knew them.
816 01:11:47,840 01:11:53,720 They politely asked what they should do to become members. They politely asked what they should do to become members.
817 01:11:53,880 01:12:00,240 The secretary replied, "You must prove that you are dedicated." The secretary replied, "You must prove that you are dedicated."
818 01:12:00,400 01:12:04,080 Hello! It's Rostenberg and Stern! Hello! It's Rostenberg and Stern!
819 01:12:04,160 01:12:08,120 And they thought, "Well, is it still like that? And they thought, "Well, is it still like that?
820 01:12:09,120 01:12:15,960 So they refused. Today, their archives are in the Grolier Club So they refused. Today, their archives are in the Grolier Club
821 01:12:16,040 01:12:18,840 -so they eventually accepted- -so they eventually accepted-
822 01:12:18,920 01:12:23,400 -that they had long ago proved their passion for books. -that they had long ago proved their passion for books.
823 01:12:24,520 01:12:28,360 It had long been a service industry It had long been a service industry
824 01:12:28,440 01:12:32,680 -who was a supplier to rich white men's collections. -who was a supplier to rich white men's collections.
825 01:12:32,840 01:12:38,120 We can not use the mother ethics standard with retroactive We can not use the mother ethics standard with retroactive
826 01:12:38,200 01:12:43,680 -and consider them a bunch of misogynists. -and consider them a bunch of misogynists.
827 01:12:44,800 01:12:49,520 But the industry does not remain relevant unless it grows and develops itself. But the industry does not remain relevant unless it grows and develops itself.
828 01:12:49,600 01:12:52,200 -and takes into account other perspectives. -and takes into account other perspectives.
829 01:12:52,280 01:12:58,680 Otherwise, it does not reflect today's readers, thinkers and collectors. Otherwise, it does not reflect today's readers, thinkers and collectors.
830 01:12:58,840 01:13:03,400 I'm often the only black person, but that's changing. I'm often the only black person, but that's changing.
831 01:13:03,560 01:13:07,480 But we need to think about the diversity of the material- But we need to think about the diversity of the material-
832 01:13:07,560 01:13:11,240 -because that's what attracts people to the industry. -because that's what attracts people to the industry.
833 01:13:11,400 01:13:15,360 I started collecting because I was writing about what I was collecting. I started collecting because I was writing about what I was collecting.
834 01:13:15,440 01:13:20,680 I still remember the first important books. I still remember the first important books.
835 01:13:22,000 01:13:26,680 Many of the old guard are not interested in change. Many of the old guard are not interested in change.
836 01:13:26,760 01:13:32,560 They do not stir in the pan. Just like in the country as a whole. They do not stir in the pan. Just like in the country as a whole.
837 01:13:32,640 01:13:36,400 People say one thing and do something else. People say one thing and do something else.
838 01:13:36,560 01:13:43,320 Older bookstores are so fatalistic. "After all, they are the ones who buy the books." Older bookstores are so fatalistic. "After all, they are the ones who buy the books."
839 01:13:43,400 01:13:47,880 How is diversity created? That is the question we are struggling with now. How is diversity created? That is the question we are struggling with now.
840 01:13:47,960 01:13:53,440 It's hard to get these people to agree on anything. It's hard to get these people to agree on anything.
841 01:13:53,600 01:13:59,880 One has to try one at a time again and again and push the boundaries. One has to try one at a time again and again and push the boundaries.
842 01:14:00,800 01:14:04,560 If we hit a dead end, we try something else. If we hit a dead end, we try something else.
843 01:14:04,640 01:14:09,680 Because we know that change is needed if the industry is to survive. Because we know that change is needed if the industry is to survive.
844 01:14:14,800 01:14:20,480 I am interested in how culture develops and changes. I am interested in how culture develops and changes.
845 01:14:21,760 01:14:24,960 I am interested in omissions- I am interested in omissions-
846 01:14:25,040 01:14:29,920 -and in the history of the present. -and in the history of the present.
847 01:14:30,000 01:14:35,560 I think there are some hidden connections- I think there are some hidden connections-
848 01:14:35,720 01:14:40,880 -which was not part of our childhood news broadcasts. -which was not part of our childhood news broadcasts.
849 01:14:40,960 01:14:43,720 I am interested in conflict material- I am interested in conflict material-
850 01:14:43,800 01:14:47,920 -not just from Afghanistan. -not just from Afghanistan.
851 01:14:48,080 01:14:53,680 I am fascinated by the fleeting traces of paper from these conflicts. I am fascinated by the fleeting traces of paper from these conflicts.
852 01:14:53,840 01:15:00,480 Paper stores mental energy. I know right away when I find something. Paper stores mental energy. I know right away when I find something.
853 01:15:00,640 01:15:05,280 "This immediately changes my perception." "This immediately changes my perception."
854 01:15:05,440 01:15:10,560 That's the kind I'm looking for. Book collectors do not buy objects That's the kind I'm looking for. Book collectors do not buy objects
855 01:15:10,640 01:15:12,960 -but stories. -but stories.
856 01:15:13,040 01:15:18,680 What are my generation and future generations interested in? What are my generation and future generations interested in?
857 01:15:18,760 01:15:21,720 They are interested in political They are interested in political
858 01:15:21,880 01:15:26,840 -in issues of capitalism and socialism, in gender issues. -in issues of capitalism and socialism, in gender issues.
859 01:15:27,000 01:15:31,160 They are interested in the avant-garde and history- They are interested in the avant-garde and history-
860 01:15:31,320 01:15:36,200 -which connects surrealism with punk and hip hop. -which connects surrealism with punk and hip hop.
861 01:15:36,360 01:15:42,120 They are interested in drug culture, sexuality and the concept of identity. They are interested in drug culture, sexuality and the concept of identity.
862 01:15:43,120 01:15:47,280 A few years ago, I collaborated with Michael Holman. A few years ago, I collaborated with Michael Holman.
863 01:15:47,360 01:15:54,320 He coined the term hip hop in an article in the East Village Eye in 1982. He coined the term hip hop in an article in the East Village Eye in 1982.
864 01:15:54,480 01:16:00,080 When hip hop came in the late 70s and early 80s- When hip hop came in the late 70s and early 80s-
865 01:16:00,240 01:16:04,440 -it was about a dozen artists. -it was about a dozen artists.
866 01:16:04,520 01:16:09,800 In 1984, Def Jam released records that sold millions of copies. In 1984, Def Jam released records that sold millions of copies.
867 01:16:09,880 01:16:16,200 MTV joined in, and the early 90s were the golden age of hip hop. MTV joined in, and the early 90s were the golden age of hip hop.
868 01:16:16,280 01:16:18,560 They had the eyes of the world on They had the eyes of the world on
869 01:16:18,640 01:16:22,520 -but it was first and foremost a creative culture- -but it was first and foremost a creative culture-
870 01:16:22,600 01:16:26,280 -where people participated enthusiastically. -where people participated enthusiastically.
871 01:16:26,360 01:16:32,320 They did not think about what would happen. They did it for themselves. They did not think about what would happen. They did it for themselves.
872 01:16:32,400 01:16:38,800 It wanted the culture. And that's what people are collecting today. It wanted the culture. And that's what people are collecting today.
873 01:16:38,960 01:16:42,720 These dreams in paper form, from before the Internet. These dreams in paper form, from before the Internet.
874 01:16:45,280 01:16:51,640 People did not think that hip hop would last or that we would preserve it. People did not think that hip hop would last or that we would preserve it.
875 01:16:51,720 01:16:54,600 Exactly. "What does it mean?" Exactly. "What does it mean?"
876 01:16:56,320 01:17:01,440 At first I did not see it as collecting. But it was a rabbit hole. At first I did not see it as collecting. But it was a rabbit hole.
877 01:17:01,520 01:17:04,840 I could not stop again. I could not stop again.
878 01:17:04,920 01:17:10,040 For many who are in their late 20s, it is very nostalgic. For many who are in their late 20s, it is very nostalgic.
879 01:17:10,200 01:17:13,440 I remember falling in love with hip hop. I remember falling in love with hip hop.
880 01:17:13,520 01:17:17,760 I was waiting for my uncle and my cousin at my grandmother's house. I was waiting for my uncle and my cousin at my grandmother's house.
881 01:17:17,920 01:17:23,840 I heard when they came because I heard my uncle's Lexus SC400. I heard when they came because I heard my uncle's Lexus SC400.
882 01:17:23,920 01:17:25,960 A cream car from 1995. A cream car from 1995.
883 01:17:26,120 01:17:30,960 "Jeeps, Lex Coups, Bimaz & Benz" by Lost Boyz was played very loud. "Jeeps, Lex Coups, Bimaz & Benz" by Lost Boyz was played very loud.
884 01:17:31,040 01:17:36,040 My cousin was wearing a DKNY suit that Lil 'Kim sang about. My cousin was wearing a DKNY suit that Lil 'Kim sang about.
885 01:17:36,120 01:17:40,000 "DKNY, oh my, I'm jiggy." And my uncle had- "DKNY, oh my, I'm jiggy." And my uncle had-
886 01:17:40,080 01:17:45,520 -a Versace shirt and sunglasses on, just like Biggie Smalls. -a Versace shirt and sunglasses on, just like Biggie Smalls.
887 01:17:45,680 01:17:50,800 They came in and I thought, "I do not know what it is, but I am with." They came in and I thought, "I do not know what it is, but I am with."
888 01:17:52,000 01:17:56,720 I wrote for an online magazine about hip-hop history- I wrote for an online magazine about hip-hop history-
889 01:17:56,800 01:18:01,600 -and they asked me to be the editor-in-chief. I said yes. -and they asked me to be the editor-in-chief. I said yes.
890 01:18:01,760 01:18:07,600 But maybe I should have known someone who wrote about hip hop. But maybe I should have known someone who wrote about hip hop.
891 01:18:07,680 01:18:11,280 The only one I knew was Dream Hampton. The only one I knew was Dream Hampton.
892 01:18:11,440 01:18:15,440 I started google but I could not find anything online. I started google but I could not find anything online.
893 01:18:15,600 01:18:21,200 Magazines such as XXL, Vibe and The Source were published in the 90s- Magazines such as XXL, Vibe and The Source were published in the 90s-
894 01:18:21,280 01:18:26,280 -and none of it was digitized. So I started collecting them. -and none of it was digitized. So I started collecting them.
895 01:18:26,360 01:18:30,120 I wanted to read Kevin Powell's Tupac article- I wanted to read Kevin Powell's Tupac article-
896 01:18:30,200 01:18:34,480 -og Greg Tate i The Village Voice. -og Greg Tate i The Village Voice.
897 01:18:34,640 01:18:37,560 So I had to buy the leaves. So I had to buy the leaves.
898 01:18:38,880 01:18:42,480 I will always do it to preserve things. I will always do it to preserve things.
899 01:18:42,560 01:18:45,760 What can we create so that the generation What can we create so that the generation
900 01:18:46,120 01:18:49,560 -who was born when Biggie Smalls died- -who was born when Biggie Smalls died-
901 01:18:49,720 01:18:54,560 -can understand why he was so important? Why he was king of NY. -can understand why he was so important? Why he was king of NY.
902 01:18:56,440 01:18:58,680 This is Phase 2. This is Phase 2.
903 01:18:58,760 01:19:04,840 He made layout and graphic design in the last issues of IGT. He made layout and graphic design in the last issues of IGT.
904 01:19:06,520 01:19:11,840 "Books are our cultural DNA that reveal who we are and what we know." "Books are our cultural DNA that reveal who we are and what we know."
905 01:19:11,920 01:19:13,920 Susan Orlean, "The Library Book" Susan Orlean, "The Library Book"
906 01:19:15,200 01:19:20,200 Several read enough before the TV came on. There was no other entertainment. Several read enough before the TV came on. There was no other entertainment.
907 01:19:20,360 01:19:24,040 It had higher status. People pretended to read. It had higher status. People pretended to read.
908 01:19:24,120 01:19:27,600 When I was young, writers were more important. When I was young, writers were more important.
909 01:19:27,760 01:19:34,160 A book is the closest you get to a human being, so authors are gods. A book is the closest you get to a human being, so authors are gods.
910 01:19:35,360 01:19:38,960 The heyday of books lasted 550 years. The heyday of books lasted 550 years.
911 01:19:39,120 01:19:44,600 But interest in books has declined. But interest in books has declined.
912 01:19:44,680 01:19:48,920 In the last ten years, we have seen the beginning to the end for In the last ten years, we have seen the beginning to the end for
913 01:19:49,000 01:19:51,320 -as a central cultural object. -as a central cultural object.
914 01:19:51,480 01:19:58,720 This is mostly due to the mobile phones and poor concentration ability. This is mostly due to the mobile phones and poor concentration ability.
915 01:19:58,800 01:20:03,280 But reading as an activity has diminished. But reading as an activity has diminished.
916 01:20:03,360 01:20:09,560 I've talked to people in the industry and people no longer read books. I've talked to people in the industry and people no longer read books.
917 01:20:09,640 01:20:15,040 This will dramatically mean a decline in book sales. This will dramatically mean a decline in book sales.
918 01:20:15,200 01:20:21,080 One does not buy a first edition of "Moby Dick" to read Melville. One does not buy a first edition of "Moby Dick" to read Melville.
919 01:20:21,160 01:20:24,640 You buy the object. And that worries me about the future. You buy the object. And that worries me about the future.
920 01:20:24,720 01:20:28,880 The books as an object will not be as appealing. The books as an object will not be as appealing.
921 01:20:29,040 01:20:34,840 The natural consequence then becomes ... If books are no longer printed- The natural consequence then becomes ... If books are no longer printed-
922 01:20:34,920 01:20:39,920 -and only exist electronically and we live in a science fiction world- -and only exist electronically and we live in a science fiction world-
923 01:20:40,000 01:20:42,880 -som i "Blade Runner"- -som i "Blade Runner"-
924 01:20:42,960 01:20:47,280 -I think more people will be interested in books again- -I think more people will be interested in books again-
925 01:20:47,360 01:20:53,240 -because they have become cultural objects. If books ceased to exist- -because they have become cultural objects. If books ceased to exist-
926 01:20:53,320 01:20:57,560 -a new bunch of people would start collecting on them. -a new bunch of people would start collecting on them.
927 01:20:58,880 01:21:05,280 Today, as the book transforms from a container of knowledge- Today, as the book transforms from a container of knowledge-
928 01:21:05,360 01:21:10,080 -for a cultural object, one considers it with new eyes. -for a cultural object, one considers it with new eyes.
929 01:21:10,160 01:21:15,520 In the 21st century it is considered differently than in the 20th century. In the 21st century it is considered differently than in the 20th century.
930 01:21:16,520 01:21:20,920 I am not convinced that the book has lost its magic. I am not convinced that the book has lost its magic.
931 01:21:21,000 01:21:25,480 We still sell books. The book's death is greatly exaggerated. We still sell books. The book's death is greatly exaggerated.
932 01:21:26,560 01:21:33,080 I often ride the subway and those who read books are in their 20s. I often ride the subway and those who read books are in their 20s.
933 01:21:33,240 01:21:37,080 It is the best one will see in the subway. It is the best one will see in the subway.
934 01:21:37,160 01:21:40,080 And my editor said- And my editor said-
935 01:21:40,160 01:21:45,040 -that most Kindle users are in their 40s. -that most Kindle users are in their 40s.
936 01:21:46,120 01:21:50,400 I do not know why we are to blame for the death of the booksellers. I do not know why we are to blame for the death of the booksellers.
937 01:21:50,480 01:21:52,760 We read and buy books. We read and buy books.
938 01:21:52,920 01:21:59,800 There is talk that the book is dying out, which is not appropriate. There is talk that the book is dying out, which is not appropriate.
939 01:21:59,880 01:22:03,920 Try reading a seven-year-old computer file. Good luck with that. Try reading a seven-year-old computer file. Good luck with that.
940 01:22:04,000 01:22:10,840 But one can still open a 500 year old book and read it. But one can still open a 500 year old book and read it.
941 01:22:10,920 01:22:15,040 The books survive. They do not burn very well. The books survive. They do not burn very well.
942 01:22:15,200 01:22:20,360 Not even uneducated people throw books out. There is something magical about them. Not even uneducated people throw books out. There is something magical about them.
943 01:22:20,520 01:22:24,920 I've never been able to throw a book out. I've never been able to throw a book out.
944 01:22:25,080 01:22:31,840 I’ve seen books in trash cans, and it’s like seeing a human head. I’ve seen books in trash cans, and it’s like seeing a human head.
945 01:22:33,920 01:22:37,920 There is something fascinating about choosing to burn books. There is something fascinating about choosing to burn books.
946 01:22:38,080 01:22:44,320 It works well and has been used since the beginning of the written word- It works well and has been used since the beginning of the written word-
947 01:22:45,520 01:22:51,200 -as a way to make people feel fear and dread. -as a way to make people feel fear and dread.
948 01:22:51,280 01:22:54,400 But it is also very symbolic. But it is also very symbolic.
949 01:22:54,480 01:23:00,640 One can obliterate the cultural memory of an entire people. One can obliterate the cultural memory of an entire people.
950 01:23:01,720 01:23:07,000 The Nazis were clearly the most ardent book burners. The Nazis were clearly the most ardent book burners.
951 01:23:07,160 01:23:12,960 Mao Zedong, a former librarian, was a book burner. Mao Zedong, a former librarian, was a book burner.
952 01:23:13,120 01:23:18,800 It hits us so hard because we project on the books- It hits us so hard because we project on the books-
953 01:23:18,880 01:23:22,520 -a kind of subconscious hope about- -a kind of subconscious hope about-
954 01:23:22,680 01:23:27,000 -that they will carry on our narrative. -that they will carry on our narrative.
955 01:23:27,160 01:23:31,400 Our knowledge, our dreams and our visions. Our knowledge, our dreams and our visions.
956 01:23:31,560 01:23:35,280 The products of our thoughts. The products of our thoughts.
957 01:23:39,480 01:23:43,080 Books survive for various reasons. Books survive for various reasons.
958 01:23:43,240 01:23:48,320 Some were buried in deserts or bogs and were protected that way. Some were buried in deserts or bogs and were protected that way.
959 01:23:48,400 01:23:51,360 They were not exposed to pollution. They were not exposed to pollution.
960 01:23:51,440 01:23:56,080 They were protected from pests. They were protected from pests.
961 01:23:56,160 01:24:00,200 They have an incredibly long life. They are survivors. They have an incredibly long life. They are survivors.
962 01:24:02,440 01:24:06,960 The biggest problem is that bookstores are getting old. The biggest problem is that bookstores are getting old.
963 01:24:07,040 01:24:12,560 Almost everyone in the stalls at the fairs has white hair. Almost everyone in the stalls at the fairs has white hair.
964 01:24:14,080 01:24:17,200 It deeply regrets the situation It deeply regrets the situation
965 01:24:17,280 01:24:21,920 -and I think these are the last generations of booksellers. -and I think these are the last generations of booksellers.
966 01:24:22,080 01:24:25,960 It will be a narrow niche for a few. It will be a narrow niche for a few.
967 01:24:27,480 01:24:32,680 When I talk to older booksellers, they are always pessimistic. When I talk to older booksellers, they are always pessimistic.
968 01:24:32,760 01:24:38,640 -while I'm optimistic. “What do you want to do?” They say. -while I'm optimistic. “What do you want to do?” They say.
969 01:24:38,720 01:24:40,480 "I'm full of ideas!" "I'm full of ideas!"
970 01:24:42,360 01:24:46,480 American antique shops often last only a generation. American antique shops often last only a generation.
971 01:24:46,560 01:24:52,880 Some survive the second generation. In England we are more conservative. Some survive the second generation. In England we are more conservative.
972 01:24:53,040 01:24:56,200 My company has been around since the 1850s. My company has been around since the 1850s.
973 01:24:56,280 01:24:58,840 Bernerd Quaritch in London as well. Bernerd Quaritch in London as well.
974 01:24:59,000 01:25:05,000 Most in the industry did not look ahead. What happened happened. Most in the industry did not look ahead. What happened happened.
975 01:25:06,720 01:25:12,880 We continue as usual and are not worried about the future. We continue as usual and are not worried about the future.
976 01:25:13,040 01:25:15,640 But we have a new generation here- But we have a new generation here-
977 01:25:15,720 01:25:22,080 -and Ben does what is necessary. Whether he continues or not. -and Ben does what is necessary. Whether he continues or not.
978 01:25:24,640 01:25:29,840 One reason I started in the industry was his enthusiasm. One reason I started in the industry was his enthusiasm.
979 01:25:29,920 01:25:36,720 If he were financially independent, he would have been a great collector. If he were financially independent, he would have been a great collector.
980 01:25:36,800 01:25:41,200 He is not exactly made to be happy. He is not exactly made to be happy.
981 01:25:41,280 01:25:48,680 He's pretty crappy. But he loves his old books. He's pretty crappy. But he loves his old books.
982 01:25:49,960 01:25:55,640 It makes him happy, and when a new collection comes in, it's Christmas Eve. It makes him happy, and when a new collection comes in, it's Christmas Eve.
983 01:25:55,720 01:26:00,320 So he's probably happy that the company can continue. So he's probably happy that the company can continue.
984 01:26:01,680 01:26:08,080 My father says, "My daughter works here. My books are not for sale." My father says, "My daughter works here. My books are not for sale."
985 01:26:08,240 01:26:14,120 It's everyone's nightmare. You have a lot of books, and then you die. It's everyone's nightmare. You have a lot of books, and then you die.
986 01:26:14,200 01:26:16,520 So what happens to them? So what happens to them?
987 01:26:18,360 01:26:23,560 My children will not take over the company, so the books will probably be sold- My children will not take over the company, so the books will probably be sold-
988 01:26:23,640 01:26:26,480 -or my colleagues also buy them. -or my colleagues also buy them.
989 01:26:26,640 01:26:30,640 Hopefully my little nuggets of gold end up in a good place. Hopefully my little nuggets of gold end up in a good place.
990 01:26:31,520 01:26:37,080 Imagine if the books could tell what they have heard. Imagine if the books could tell what they have heard.
991 01:26:38,560 01:26:45,000 They are welcome to sell my books. When I'm dead, it does not matter. They are welcome to sell my books. When I'm dead, it does not matter.
992 01:26:46,520 01:26:52,440 A handful of my belongings belong to different institutions. A handful of my belongings belong to different institutions.
993 01:26:52,520 01:26:57,880 But most of the things should be privately owned, so they should be sold- But most of the things should be privately owned, so they should be sold-
994 01:26:57,960 01:27:01,680 -so others can take care of them like I did. -so others can take care of them like I did.
995 01:27:01,760 01:27:06,000 The intention is that the University of Pennsylvania gets everything. The intention is that the University of Pennsylvania gets everything.
996 01:27:06,160 01:27:09,800 They already have the fiction. I want to keep the collection together. They already have the fiction. I want to keep the collection together.
997 01:27:09,960 01:27:14,240 There is no point in spreading it for all to win. There is no point in spreading it for all to win.
998 01:27:14,320 01:27:18,320 That would be counterintuitive and stupid. That would be counterintuitive and stupid.
999 01:27:19,720 01:27:24,120 I'm not particularly interested in money. I'm not particularly interested in money.
1000 01:27:24,280 01:27:29,720 I can sell a book at a loss if it goes to someone who ... I can sell a book at a loss if it goes to someone who ...
1001 01:27:29,880 01:27:35,480 I will not say "deserves it", but someone who really wants it. I will not say "deserves it", but someone who really wants it.
1002 01:27:36,440 01:27:42,280 Giving the book the right home can be compared to the doctor's work Giving the book the right home can be compared to the doctor's work
1003 01:27:42,360 01:27:47,160 -to cure his patient. It is his duty. -to cure his patient. It is his duty.
1004 01:27:48,480 01:27:53,040 I do not regret anything I have owned or sold. I do not regret anything I have owned or sold.
1005 01:27:53,200 01:27:56,800 I only regret the books I did not buy. I only regret the books I did not buy.
1006 01:28:01,800 01:28:06,160 The third fair in five weeks. I've been home for ten days- The third fair in five weeks. I've been home for ten days-
1007 01:28:06,320 01:28:09,560 -and on Wednesday it's time again. -and on Wednesday it's time again.
1008 01:28:16,880 01:28:20,400 The problem is parking the van. The problem is parking the van.
1009 01:28:20,560 01:28:26,240 It's all this, and so this. We can start with the wooden boxes. It's all this, and so this. We can start with the wooden boxes.
1010 01:28:54,760 01:28:59,160 That blizzard destroyed everything! That blizzard destroyed everything!
1011 01:29:04,160 01:29:08,960 This is my 45th trade fair. The first time, they were still at the Plaza Hotel. This is my 45th trade fair. The first time, they were still at the Plaza Hotel.
1012 01:29:09,120 01:29:13,160 We were maybe 85 exhibitors at the time. We were maybe 85 exhibitors at the time.
1013 01:29:13,240 01:29:17,680 It was a little more like the Wild West back then. It was a little more like the Wild West back then.
1014 01:29:21,200 01:29:27,160 -I've been going for 40 years. -And he's not even 40. -I've been going for 40 years. -And he's not even 40.
1015 01:29:27,320 01:29:31,120 We'll have to toast in champagne later. I hope you come. We'll have to toast in champagne later. I hope you come.
1016 01:29:31,200 01:29:35,600 But set the cameras and use both hands. Do not waste. But set the cameras and use both hands. Do not waste.
1017 01:29:37,400 01:29:40,680 Wishy, ​​my catering mentor, always said- Wishy, ​​my catering mentor, always said-
1018 01:29:40,840 01:29:45,680 -that the opening of the champagne bottle should sound like a woman's sigh. -that the opening of the champagne bottle should sound like a woman's sigh.
1019 01:29:48,360 01:29:51,480 "The library survives. It's the universe." "The library survives. It's the universe."
1020 01:29:51,560 01:29:54,320 Jorge Luis Borges, "Biblioteket i Babel" Jorge Luis Borges, "Biblioteket i Babel"
1021 01:29:56,440 01:30:01,360 Some of us think about it all the time and I know what some of you think Some of us think about it all the time and I know what some of you think
1022 01:30:01,440 01:30:05,360 -but if you could start over ... We are bookstores. -but if you could start over ... We are bookstores.
1023 01:30:05,440 01:30:10,440 We deal with culture and we are passionate about it. We deal with culture and we are passionate about it.
1024 01:30:10,600 01:30:16,040 It can be frustrating. Are you grateful to have ended up here? It can be frustrating. Are you grateful to have ended up here?
1025 01:30:16,200 01:30:19,560 -What else should you do? -I love it. -What else should you do? -I love it.
1026 01:30:19,640 01:30:23,360 In 1999, I was released from AB Bookman's Weekly. In 1999, I was released from AB Bookman's Weekly.
1027 01:30:23,440 01:30:28,440 It was like going from writing about sports to even playing baseball. It was like going from writing about sports to even playing baseball.
1028 01:30:28,520 01:30:31,240 I would do it again. I would do it again.
1029 01:30:31,400 01:30:34,720 I would not have become a bookseller. I would not have become a bookseller.
1030 01:30:34,800 01:30:38,280 What Adam likes is the hunt. What Adam likes is the hunt.
1031 01:30:38,360 01:30:42,400 I love finding them, but the business side ... I love finding them, but the business side ...
1032 01:30:42,560 01:30:46,800 Supply is limited and demand is limited. Supply is limited and demand is limited.
1033 01:30:46,960 01:30:52,560 You almost have to be a psychologist to be able to sell the books. You almost have to be a psychologist to be able to sell the books.
1034 01:30:52,720 01:30:57,600 - It's not like selling ... - You're like a gold digger. - It's not like selling ... - You're like a gold digger.
1035 01:30:57,680 01:31:01,760 You have to find the gold nuggets. It's so hard. You have to find the gold nuggets. It's so hard.
1036 01:31:01,920 01:31:06,280 And besides, it wears on the body. And besides, it wears on the body.
1037 01:31:06,360 01:31:12,120 Physically. If you look at the bookstores at the book fair ... Physically. If you look at the bookstores at the book fair ...
1038 01:31:12,200 01:31:16,160 They are not ... The parts are like misplaced. They are not ... The parts are like misplaced.
1039 01:31:16,240 01:31:21,560 A bookstore gets on average 18 cm shorter when they are 40 years old. A bookstore gets on average 18 cm shorter when they are 40 years old.
1040 01:31:21,640 01:31:27,200 -I never had those inches. -You were 1.87 when you were 20, Dave. -I never had those inches. -You were 1.87 when you were 20, Dave.
1041 01:31:41,640 01:31:47,480 In the silence between author and reader, memories are created. In the silence between author and reader, memories are created.
1042 01:31:47,560 01:31:51,200 Through others, we learn about substance and value. Through others, we learn about substance and value.
1043 01:31:51,280 01:31:56,640 Fabric, meat, ink, skin, paper, dust Fabric, meat, ink, skin, paper, dust
1044 01:31:56,720 01:32:00,640 -are just materials in which ideas live. -are just materials in which ideas live.
1045 01:32:00,720 01:32:04,960 On a crowded shelf between desert sun and Arctic night On a crowded shelf between desert sun and Arctic night
1046 01:32:05,040 01:32:10,120 -wakes up distant mind, mixes and then calms down. -wakes up distant mind, mixes and then calms down.
1047 01:32:10,200 01:32:14,120 The minds meet where the reading hand grasps the void- The minds meet where the reading hand grasps the void-
1048 01:32:14,200 01:32:17,520 -and soft strokes along empty margins. -and soft strokes along empty margins.
1049 01:32:17,600 01:32:21,480 Lost, forgotten, thumb cracked. Lost, forgotten, thumb cracked.
1050 01:32:21,560 01:32:26,000 Scarred by patient decades and centuries of dreams. Scarred by patient decades and centuries of dreams.
1051 01:32:26,080 01:32:29,280 I do not know who to hold me now- I do not know who to hold me now-
1052 01:32:29,360 01:32:33,160 -but the book also reads its readers. -but the book also reads its readers.
1053 01:34:35,680 01:34:40,000 To my Aunt Vail. To my Aunt Vail.
1054 01:34:40,120 01:34:44,120 Danish texts: BTI Studios Danish texts: BTI Studios
1055 01:34:44,640 01:34:48,680 I do not lend books. People never return them. I do not lend books. People never return them.
1056 01:34:48,840 01:34:52,000 I lent a book to David Bowie. I lent a book to David Bowie.
1057 01:34:52,080 01:34:57,040 "Buy it instead," I said. And he never returned it. "Buy it instead," I said. And he never returned it.
1058 01:33:57,000 01:34:57,000 PeG@SuS Urang Sunda Asli PeG@SuS Urang Sunda Asli