Mystery book

This object was sold at auction in New York in 2008 for $1500. Notice how the side is decorated to look like an antique book, with raised ridges on the "spine" and a red label for the "title."

Is it the world's most expensive decorator Kleenex box?

It's not a Kleenex box. It is a 17th century French travelling commode, in the shape of a book. The auction catalog helpfully noted that the size is "Folio" -- the largest size for a book. This antiquarian "book" has full calf leather covers elaborately decorated with a stamped geometric design, and an attractive spine with a "title" label in red morocco leather trimmed with gilt.

The auction house did not know who was the original owner of this antique. They guessed it might have been a military commander or some other important person who would have spent a lot of time travelling in "uncivilized" lands but still wanted to travel in style and comfort.

What is the title of this strange biblio-pot? "Historia Universalis," or "A universal history." Perhaps that was the maker's comment on the "universality" of the object's function!

Putting the "fun" in fundraising

Coming up on Saturday, Aug. 21, Short Beach will be the site of a "MADD Dash" to raise funds for the Connecticut chapter of Mothers Against Drunk Driving. You can participate in either the 5K run or the 2 mile walk, and there's a "kids' fun run" for eleven and under. Trophies will be awarded to the top winners with special prizes for the top Stratford winners.

The 5K (3.1 miles) course is scenic and flat, and the organization couldn't be any worthier, so take a look at their website to sign up: www.hitekracing.com/madd/.

Meanwhile, back at the library...

Everyone who has been involved in an advocacy or charitable group knows that a frustratingly large amount of time has to be spent on fund-raising. Don't reinvent the wheel: come to the library and borrow some resources when you find yourself searching for new and better ideas to raise money.

	The Accidental Fundraiser: A Step-by-Step Guide to Raising Money for Your Cause by Stephanie Roth and Mimi Ho. This book is a terrific resource for new fundraisers, or even veterans who need to brush up on the basics. The authors have found a way to turn fundraising into a manageable process with worksheets and step-by-step, detailed instructions.
	Great Fundraising Ideas for Youth Groups, by David Lynn and Kathy Lynn. Although this book was written with church groups in mind, most of the ideas can be adapted to any youth program. A creative collection of over 150 ways to raise money for youth activities and charity projects.

Shakespeare carries on

Shakespeare in the Sun
Saturday, Aug. 14, 2 pm.
Grounds of the Stratford Festival Theatre

A summer tradition in Stratford is the outdoor performances given by the Hudson Shakespeare Company at the Library. Performing with a minimum of props and costumes, but a maximum of drama and flair, the Hudson Shakespeare Company bring Shakespeare's words to life in the town named after his own.

The last play in the series will be The Tempest, on Saturday, Aug. 14, at 2 pm. As a special event, this last performance will be on the grounds of the Stratford Festival Theatre. Bring a chair and a picnic to enjoy the last play of the summer season.

O wonder! How many goodly creatures are there here! How beauteous mankind is! O brave new world That has such people in't!"