Too many books
Sir: Paul Johnson's article on the difficulties of book publishing today (24 January) was so very revealing, as indeed he always is.
Yet to me it seems a strange paradox that, in view of all he writes about the problems of the book trade (and! have myself spent 50 years in the printing trade, on newspapers), there seems to be such a proliferation of new titles week by week — and often at such tremendously high prices. I wish I knew how, in view of all he says, they can command such prices. One thing! do so wish he had touched on, and which I notice in Manchester (I presume it also happens elsewhere?) is the spread of 'bargain books' shops. How and why? Their 'bargains' are certainly remarkable, many being offered at half or a third of the published price. (And such beautiful books, especially those on art.) I have already enriched my own collection considerably. But what is the reason, and how can this be possible?
Harold S. Priestley 16 Alexandra Drive, Manchester
Previous page
