Cataloguing
The Parts of a Personal Catalogue That Earn Their Keep
A personal catalogue works best when each entry names the title, creator, subject and location, so you can find a book…
The reading shelf
All pieces
Browse pieces on collecting, cataloguing, sharing, reuse and making. Each one starts with a distinct question and keeps its suggestions adaptable to the materials and time at hand.
Collecting
Loose Shelves or Numbered Boxes for a Small Collection?
Loose shelves or numbered boxes for a small collection? Compare access, space and label upkeep to choose a storage…
Cataloguing
Why Readers Kept Lists of Their Books Before Card Catalogues
See why readers kept book lists before card catalogues, and choose a simple record that helps you remember what you…
Collecting
The Myth That a Collection Must Be Complete
A book collection need not be complete to feel satisfying. Choose a personal direction, enjoy the volumes you have and…
Reuse
A Spring Sort for Scraps of Paper Worth Saving
A spring sort for scraps of paper worth saving turns loose offcuts into ready-to-use materials, with clear…
Our point of view
Keep good things moving.
A useful collection need not be large or expensive. We look at the decisions that help objects and ideas stay findable, useful and ready to share.