Often such projects are complicated although to view these videos and then the American Experience catalogue it might seem easy. As an interested party and experienced observer, I know it takes a lot of hard work to present an air of effortlessness.

Video link to the current and four preceding videos.

Bonhams is providing links both to observe and bid. To bid you need to identify yourself and complete a registration. Allow some time.

To observe the sale or sign up to bid use this link.

www.bonhams.com/usa/auction/18598

To sign up to bid by absentee or phone call 212-644-9001.

For questions about specific items use 917-558-6282 and 310-623-2084.

Extended terms are offered. Call 415-503-3223 for answers to your questions.

An auction is ultimately a verdict and the auction house your counsel. As there are many auctions the clamor of offers creates an endless din that requires tuning the pitch precisely. Bonhams has effectively brought this sale to life and the outcome on Thursday will provide a fair assessment of the current market.

We are living through a period of significant change. Deep information is increasingly accessible. The rise of iPads and electronic readers and online access to books has pundits and parents wondering if the printed word will lose its ascendant place in our society. The answer I believe is yes and no. Electronically words will become ether but the objects, - first printings, association copies, fine bindings and original boards will matter more. Ultimately it is all about the math. Great material is finite and population always increasing.

Following the sale we will publish an analysis.