Abstract
Abstract The rapid spread of printing in Europe, starting in the late fifteenth century, generated an explosion in the number of books available and encouraged the production of longer books. The authors and printers of informational genres used layout and paratexts to facilitate consultation, reading, or the ability to find specific information in large books. The alphabetical index, the table of contents, tables and branching diagrams, among other apparatus, all of which originated in the Middle Ages, became more widely diffused through printing. These aids to the reader characterized genres that today we might call reference works. Complaints about the overabundance of books also prompted the production of books designed to manage the books themselves, including bibliographies, library catalogues, auction catalogues, and journals comprising book reviews.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
