When I was going to school at Parsons I spent a lot of time in the library. I learned a lot from my instructors, but I learned just as much from the library's truly astounding collection of old books and magazines. The thing is, the place is not that big—so every year they would have a sale and get rid of duplicates, damaged copies, and things they felt were outdated or unneeded. I found a ton of good stuff there—so much that I would often have to take a cab back to Brooklyn with all my loot. This book, Shopfronts, by Bill Evans and Andrew Lawson, is one of the stand-outs (and a steal for 25 cents). Published in 1981 with the intention of recording "a threatened tradition of English shopkeeping," it is chock full of inspiration for designers and junkhounds alike. My favorite spread is this one documenting "and sons" signage. Click any of the images to enlarge.
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