The History of The Coffee Table Book

If you’ve ever wondered about the origins of coffee table books, you are not alone. To understand why we always purchase at least one of these books over the holiday season, we delve into the history of ‘the coffee table book’.

Books as Gifts

Gift-giving has included books since the eighteenth century. Since then, people frequently choose to give books as gifts, with dictionaries and encyclopaedias initially being the frequently chosen books, evolving to more topical reads. 

Many early readers used books for ‘non-reading’ purposes, despite the common misconception that books are only meant to be read. In the 14th century, poet Eustache Deschamps made fun of the custom of using books as ornaments. The way society interacted with literature altered in the 1920s. Before that, most people used books for the reasons for which they were meant. The wealthy and well-educated had the most access to books, whereas individuals from lower social strata had more difficulty finding them. However, as time went on, more individuals realised that they could use them to demonstrate their character and personalities without ever having to open the book.

The Name ‘Coffee Table Book’

It is thought that the term ‘coffee table book’ has been in use by the British since the 1800s. However, Americans credit David Brower, the Sierra Club’s executive director, who released environmental coffee table books as part of their Exhibit Format series after World War II. 

The idea of the coffee table book wasn’t very novel in 1960, but the name was. Previously, they were referred to as nonbooks, parlour books, or occasionally grand piano books for the same reason the name ‘coffee table book’ originated.

Object naming after ‘domestic features’ was not a novel concept. Novels with titles like ‘closet dramas,’ ‘gothic novels,’ ‘kitchen sink dramas,’ and others were named after the locations or objects where they took place. There was no difference in books.

The Appeal of Coffee Table Books 

The ability of coffee table books to make previously pricey and intellectually protected subjects available to the general public is one of their most enticing features. Large audiences can be introduced to previously inaccessible subjects like classical art, psychics, and architecture through affordable coffee table books. Coffee table books offer a way to experience these things for those unable to take classes, visit museums, or access resources.

According to psychologists, coffee table books bring back memories of reading oversized picture books as kids. Additionally, we use books to display and define our personality. Whatever your interests, there is probably a coffee table book for you out there. 

Stylistic’s offer a range of fantastic creative and informative books, perfect as a gift to yourself or someone special. Check them out here.