Tabard Inn Library Revolving Bookcase, ca. 1900,

Tabard Inn Library Revolving Bookcase, ca. 1900,
oak with one glazed door, peaked roof with two pediments inscribed "The Tabard Inn," carved throughout with heraldic shields, inscriptions, and subjects. The inscription encircling the bookcase reads "The Best Reading Rooms in the United States Are the Homes of the American People." The Tabard Inn Library was a membership library founded by Seymour Eaton in 1902. Revolving bookcases were placed in drug stores and other commercial establishments throughout the United States. A lifetime membership was available for $3.00, later reduced to $1.50, with a five cent deposit when exchanging books at the bookcases. Each book was identified by a sturdy black case encircled by red tape, hence the slogan "With all the Red Tape on the Box." 81" x 27" x 26.5" Private collection from Virginia.
Estimate $6000 - 9000