SF Public Library

Resources at the SF Public Library: This is such a marvelous place that I'm always surprised that more of us "arty" types don't know about it. Sure, the new (now not so new) library was poorly designed. There's less space for books than at the old Main Library and the Rotunda carries sound which can be very distracting when a group of kids is visiting the place. But better they visit and learn about the free resources available to them than out making mischief!

I'm an antique buff and I'm constantly consulting Maloney's. Now, I can't afford to buy what I covet but it's always fun to know what something is worth. Maloney's covers just about every topic you can imagine and is constantly updated. if you want to add to your collection, or to dispose of an item, or to simply establish its value beyond the worth you yourself attach to it, you will need Maloney’s. Maloney’s Antiques & Collectibles Resource Directory, now in its 7th, rev. edition is the undisputed No.1 resource for collectors, dealers in antiques, attorneys, insurance companies, authors, lecturers and anyone with an interest in collectibles and personal property. It does not give definitions or illustrations, but provides the names and addresses of more than 20,000 collectors, buyers, dealers, experts and appraisers, clubs, societies and associations, museums and centers of specialized research. Many of these entries include websites and e-mail addresses. It also lists reproduction sources, repair/restoration services and suppliers of parts. For some collectibles it provides information on antiques buying trips, internet and gallery auctions, specialized periodicals and computer software for collectors.

Anybody who reads this blog knows that I love the book arts. Therefore, I was delighted by the show featuring the work of Robert Sabuta, the wizard of pop-up artists and a living example of the erasure of the line between craft and art with their unparalleled artistry and innovation.

The show features 60 colorful and fanciful illustrations and intricate pop-up books drawn from 11 books. His first published pop-up was The Christmas Alphabet (1994), followed later by The 12 Days of Christmas (1996), both of which have become best selling holiday classics. The Wonderful Wizard of Oz: A Commemorative Pop-up (2000), has been considered his masterpiece. Its linoleum-block print medium adheres to the style of the original W.W. Denslow illustrations, yet the intense visual power of the pop-up is all Sabuda’s.

August 31 through November 9, 2008
Main Library, Lower Level, Jewett Gallery
100 Larkin Street (at Grove)
Related Adult Programs:

History of Pop-Up Book-making with demonstration
Thursday, October 23, 5:30-6:30 p.m.
Latino Hispanic Community Room,
Main Library, Lower Level,
100 Larkin Street (at Grove)