October 30, 2012
Rare Books from Beloved Highland Park Bookstore at Auction
(Chicago) October 30, 2012 - “There is something about a bookstore that makes everybody comfortable,” said veteran bookseller Florence Shay in an interview with the ABAA. “[Customers] unburden themselves and tell me their problems and I tell them exactly what to do - Come back!” And that is just what they did for 40 years; people came to Florence’s beloved rare bookstore, Titles, Inc., situated in downtown Highland Park, and enjoyed her constant presence and cheerful conversation. The space has a very intimate feel, with custom shelves lining the walls, leather bounds and high spots elevated in the back, and displays of Americana and Children’s literature and nick-knacks on tables down the center. It was here that Florence made her customers feel at home, relaxed, and among friends.
On August 22, 2012, Florence Shay passed away at 90, leaving behind her husband, renowned Chicago photographer, Art Shay, four children, six grandchildren, one great grandchild and Titles, Inc., which is one of the oldest retail establishments in downtown Highland Park. Loved and respected by all who were lucky to know her, Florence grew her bookstore from the ground up and stocked it according to her own interests, including miniature books, children’s books, art books, Chicago/Americana and modern first editions; she maintained a strong presence in both national and international booksellers organizations, including ILAB and the ABAA, and evolved with the times by placing her inventory online, while still keeping an open shop.
Leslie Hindman Auctioneers will offer over 200 lots of rare books from Titles, Inc. at auction November 7 at 1338 West Lake Street, Chicago, Illinois. A public preview of the items will be held Saturday through Tuesday at the auction house and a fully illustrated catalogue is available online at www.lesliehindman.com. The remaining inventory will be sold on-site at Titles, Inc. in Highland Park, December 6-9. Please contact Mary Kohnke for more details at 312.334.4236 or marykohnke@lesliehindman.com .
CHICAGO | 312.280.1212 | www.lesliehindman.com
Leslie Hindman Auctioneers will offer over 200 lots of rare books from Titles, Inc. at auction November 7 at 1338 West Lake Street, Chicago, Illinois. A public preview of the items will be held Saturday through Tuesday at the auction house and a fully illustrated catalogue is available online at www.lesliehindman.com. The remaining inventory will be sold on-site at Titles, Inc. in Highland Park, December 6-9. Please contact Mary Kohnke for more details at 312.334.4236 or marykohnke@lesliehindman.com .
CHICAGO | 312.280.1212 | www.lesliehindman.com
