Author
John Willis Clark
1833-1910
John Willis Clark (1833-1910) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
WikipediaSubjects
Books by John Willis Clark
The Care of Books
"The Care of Books" by John Willis Clark is an essay on the history and development of libraries and their furnishings from ancient times to the late 18th century. Written in the early 20th century, the work presents a detailed exploration of how various cultures, particularly during the classical period, organized and maintained their collections of books. The central theme revolves around the evolution of library structures, their fittings, and the care of the books, enabling readers to appreciate the historical significance of libraries. The opening of the book introduces Clark's intention to investigate the methods employed throughout history to preserve books and facilitate their use. He discusses the origins of libraries, starting with the Assyrian record-rooms, and progresses through significant developments in ancient Greece and Rome. Clark emphasizes the interplay between architecture, societal organization, and bibliographic practices, setting the stage for a comprehensive exploration of how these early repositories of knowledge were structured and utilized. This introduction lays a solid groundwork for readers interested in the intersection of history, architecture, and bibliophilia.
Old Friends at Cambridge and Elsewhere
"Old Friends at Cambridge and Elsewhere" by John Willis Clark is a collection of biographical sketches written in the late 19th century. The work details the lives of notable figures from the University of Cambridge, reflecting on academic, social, and constitutional changes within the institution over the years. The author draws upon his own recollections and experiences as a former Fellow of Trinity College, providing insight into the personal and academic lives of his subjects. The opening of the memoir begins with a preface in which Clark addresses his motivation for compiling these recollections, noting the differing nature of the University as he first encountered it compared to its state in his later years. He acknowledges a desire to share anecdotes and smaller insights into the lives of individuals whose contributions shaped Cambridge, despite expressing some uncertainty about the significance of his memories. The initial biography presented in the text focuses on Dr. William Whewell, exploring his multifaceted life as a pivotal figure in both the scientific community and the governance of the University. Throughout this opening portion, Clark sets up a narrative emphasizing the blend of personal anecdotes and historical context that characterizes the lives of these esteemed Cambridge residents.
Libraries in the Medieval and Renaissance Periods The Rede Lecture Delivered June 13, 1894
"Libraries in the Medieval and Renaissance Periods" by John Willis Clark is a lecture delivered in 1894. Originally presented at the University of Cambridge with lantern slides, it traces the evolution of libraries from ancient Rome through the Renaissance. Clark explores monastic book collections, the growth of university libraries at Oxford and Cambridge, and distinctive practices like chaining books to shelves. The work examines how religious customs influenced academic library design and how the advent of printing transformed library practices across centuries.