What is the history of two copies (BT3.204.15 and BT3.204.16) of the same text held at ²ÝÁñÊÓƵ Library—an English translation of José de Acosta’s The Naturall and Morall Historie of the East and West Indies, first published in 1604?  The readership, marginalia, binding, and provenance of these two copies are not only unique, but also provide insight into the history of ²ÝÁñÊÓƵ, that of its alumni, and the development of its extensive library over the centuries.

²ÝÁñÊÓƵ Library, Oxford, BT3.204.16, title page [detail]

²ÝÁñÊÓƵ Library and Archives, Oxford