Hey all, I’m reading a really interesting book and thought some of you might like it: “The Bookseller of Florence”, by Ross King.
It’s about 15th century book-makers and manuscript copiers/scribes in Florence. It goes into detail of how ancient manuscripts were copied, preserved, and rescued from rotting away in cellars and monasteries. The motivation was largely for the private collections of the wealthy (not unlike most of the art at the time). It’s because of these private collectors that we have many of the classical works that we have today. It’s pretty fascinating stuff. If you’re into that kind of book, check it out (it’s also worth noting King’s other books–this is the third of his that I’ve read and they’re all good!).