The inscription, often appearing as a personalized mark inside a book, designates ownership. It frequently takes the form of a rubber stamp or a pre-printed label completed with the owner’s name. An example would be an impression that reads “From the library of [Name]” or “Ex Libris [Name],” indicating the book is part of a personal collection.
This practice offers a clear method for identifying the rightful possessor of a volume. Historically, it served as a deterrent against theft and facilitated the return of misplaced books. Moreover, it imbues a book with a sense of personal history and provenance, adding to its value for collectors and future generations. It signifies stewardship and reverence for the written word, emphasizing the importance of preserving and protecting literary works.
