Mechanic Library NEW-HAVEN

Dateca. 1793

After work by Amos Doolittle (1754-1832)

Engraver Amos Doolittle (1754-1832)

OriginAmerica, Connecticut, New Haven

MediumEtching and line engraving on laid paper

DimensionsOverall: 4 1/2 × 3 3/8in. (11.4 × 8.6cm)

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number1975-209

DescriptionThe cartouche reads: "Mechanic Library/ NEW-HAVEN"

Below the cartouche: "Doolittle del et Sculp."Label TextIn 1793, the Mechanic Library was founded in New Haven, Connecticut which was intended to lend books to working class members. In this case “mechanic” referred to manual laborers. Connecticut-born engraver Amos Doolittle engraved this bookplate for the library which proclaims the library’s motto “Improve the Moment.”ProvenanceBefore 1975, Bookpress, Ltd. (Williamsburg, VA); 1975-present, purchased by the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation (Williamsburg, VA).