Our first Evening Talk will be an introduction to The Limited Editions Club.
The Limited Editions Club started in New York 1929 by a then 29-year-old George Macy. In total the LEC published 589 books in 58 series between 1929 – 2010, this excludes some of the special editions and publications that also happened from time to time. The concept was simple, they reissued many of the world’s greatest works in limited edition formats, initially limited to 1500 copies, which for a period in 70’s-80’s increased to 2000 and then decreased again between 1985...
Before each series the Limited Editions Club released a prospectus with the books planned for that particular series. Naturally the first prospectus is likely the most important of all released, introducing not only the first 12 books but the Club and what it will stand for. These were very much marketing tools to generate excitement and importantly fill all 1500 available subscriber spots. Of course George Macy knew very well that the first publications will be absolutely crucial for the success of this new venture and he was determined to make sure that they stand up to his high standards
