Subject: Publishers and publishing / Form: Financial records and Advertisements - Philadelphia Area Archives Search Results

Extent:: .2 linear_foot (1 box)
Abstract:: William Wait (1821-1880) was a lawyer and an author of a number of legal texts pertaining to the law in New York. His last will and testament allowed for the continuation of the publication and sale of the law books for which he had copyright until his youngest son turned 21 in 1889. This collection contains information about the legacy of Wait's copyrighted works following his death in 1880.

Held at: University of Pennsylvania: Kislak Center for Special Collections, Rare Books and Manuscripts [Contact Us]

Extent:: 21.0 boxes and and 91 volumes
Abstract:: William A. Leary, was a small-time book seller in 1836 when he journeyed to Philadelphia to establish a sidewalk book stall on North Second Street. As business prospered, Leary moved to several different locations, finally settling at 138 North Second Street which was right next door to the Camel Tavern, a landmark in Philadelphia. Leary’s Book Store specialized in selling inexpensive, second—hand books. Because of its large inventory and cheap prices, Leary’s developed a national reputation. In addition to selling and buying books, Leary expanded his base of operations by venturing into the publishing business in the 1850s. William A. Leary, Jr. took over the book store in 1865. Stuart and Charles Mann purchased the store from the Leary Estate in 1876. Under the Stuart’s management, Leary’s became one of the largest old book dealers in the world. As more people moved to and shopped in the suburbs, Leary’s customer base declined. Leary’s went out of business on November 20, 1968....(see more)

Held at: Temple University Libraries Special Collections Research Center [Contact Us]

Extent:: 0.4 linear_foot (1 box)
Abstract:: This is a collection of Book-of-the-Month club news, mailings, and offers along with a few examples of other book-seller related materials such as advertisements, catalogs, lists, and financial and business documents, mostly receipts. The bulk of the collection is from the years 1850 to 1961 with a few outlying documents from the 1820s to 1840s.

Held at: University of Pennsylvania: Kislak Center for Special Collections, Rare Books and Manuscripts [Contact Us]

Extent:: 0.2 linear feet (1 box)
Abstract:: Charles W. Frost (1848-1939) was an advertising agent in Philadelphia who published a Comprehensive Calendar (a 250-year calendar beginning in 1753 and ending in 2002). This collection contains letters largely addressed to Frost relating almost exclusively to the perpetual calendar.

Held at: University of Pennsylvania: Kislak Center for Special Collections, Rare Books and Manuscripts [Contact Us]

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