Amidst the recession, Tennants Auctioneers held their most successful ever book sale last week when they sold several collections including the important Douglas Grant library.

 

Professor Douglas Grant, Royal Marine Officer and Commando, Chair of American Literature at Leeds University and author of many literary works, died in 1969 at the age of 47. During his life, he passionately collected English literature from the 17^th century onwards.

 

The library, which had remained untouched for 40 years, included many rare works in their original bindings.

 

Tennants’ book specialist, Paul Hughes said; ‘Single owner collections of this quality always generate a great deal of interest, particularly when so fresh to the market. The saleroom was packed and we were inundated with enquiries, many from overseas. ’

 

The sale made £220,000, a new record for the Yorkshire auctioneers. In the last two years, the value of books sold at Tennants has more than trebled and selling rates far exceed industry norms.

 

Mr Hughes said; ‘Tennants’ investment in new technology has helped develop an international following for our book auctions. Live on-line bidding allows buyers from around the world to participate from their home or office. We can have a buyer in Australia bidding against another in Canada via our saleroom in North Yorkshire.’