The sheaf catalogs of George John Spencer

Abstract

THE SHEAF CATALOGS OF GEORGE JOHN SPENCER By Larissa C. Brookes This thesis discusses two library catalogs once owned by George John, the second Earl Spencer (1758-1834). A consummate bibliophile and book collector, Spencer amassed an unparalleled private library of first editions, incunables, and other coveted books. Spencer used several manuscript (i.e. handwritten) catalogs to access and manage his extensive libraries. One of these catalogs was in sheaf format, a compact physical form that foreshadows the more well-known card catalog format. Spencer's sheaf catalog is now in the collection of the Grolier Club in New York. He owned a second nearly identical sheaf catalog, now at the John Rylands University Library of Manchester. While this thesis examines both sheaf catalogs, it focuses on the catalog now held by the Grolier Club. As this thesis explains, Spencer's sheaf catalog carries a wealth of information regarding the evolution of library catalogs. Examining cataloging history demonstrates that Spencer's sheaf catalog occupies a unique position; it may be the first compact catalog used for a private library. The sheaf catalog also reveals a hidden side of Spencer, the celebrated book collector. Spencer is best known for applying his intellect and fortune to finding and buying books; however, his sheaf catalog demonstrates that Spencer also devoted himself to ensuring that he and other readers could find the books and information they sought in his vast library.