Pride and Prejudice

John Lloyd Raymond became a benefactor of the University of St. Francis library in 1950 when he presented a large part of his personal library to the school. His only condition on the gift was that the collection be kept intact and that the books be used. Mr. Raymond continued donating books until his death in 1974. He was an ardent book collector who showed remarkable ability in his choice of titles. Many of the books he donated were first editions, limited editions, early printings, autographed copies and books with fine bindings.

One such remarkable book is the copy of Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen with illustrations by Robert Ball. This edition of Austen's most memorable work was printed in 1945 by Doubleday, Doran & Company, Inc. in Garden City, NY. It is a limited edition with a decorative jacket and slipcover. The slipcover notes that it is a part of the "Doubleday Doran Limited Editions Illustrated by Famous American Artists", and an early page reads "This edition is limited to 1,000 numbered copies signed by the artist, Robert Ball. This is copy No. 710".

To see this book and more of the unusual and unique books given to the USF Library by John L. Raymond, please feel free to visit the USF Library Archives on the 2nd floor of the USF Library.

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