This collection consists of nearly 2,000 bookplates mainly from the 20th century with some 19th century designs as well. The bulk of the collection came from the Cleveland Public Library in the early 1970's. The collection is broken up alphabetically in two categories, Individuals and Institutions. Institutions may include corporations, schools, universities, libraries or societies. The work of many fine artists is represented, including E. D. French, Paul Landacre, Kalman Kubinyi, Arthur N. Macdonald, Rockwell Kent, J.W. Jameson and J.W. Spenceley.
Engravings span the range from linoleum block prints to woodcuts to fine copper etchings.
Styles include the very basic with just the owner's name or monogram, to the elaborate designs of the Early English, Chippendale or Jacobean period, where ornate carvings usually centered around the family crest. Two popular 20th century themes are categorized as Literary, featuring a shelf of books, or as Library Interior - a roomful of bookshelves surround an empty wingback chair, a book resting open on its seat near the hearth. Pictorial designs may include the family home, nature or sporting scenes, allegorical tales, humor, or reflect the owner's other interests. Examples of bookplates for children generally depict a child or children reading. Steal not this book my honest friend, for fear the gallows be thy end.