Throughout the world's history, the rise and fall of the book as the main means of information management and dissemination is well-documented. As the main means for scholarly information to be transmitted and for popular entertainment to be enjoyed through the twentieth century, the book can be said to have a strong cultural and sociological effect. The legacy and importance of the book cannot be understated, and it is a main feature of the history of the book collection.

The collection includes a great deal of information about the history and development of the book and its effect on society. From the earliest manuscripts, through printing and popular presses, to mass market books, the collection describes how books played a major role in the spread of information.