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An arresting 1917 war-time poster by artist Charles Buckles Falls, advocating for the donation of books to soldiers in camps and overseas.
In the throes of World War I, various social and cultural campaigns emerged as integral parts of the larger war effort. Among these was a vibrant movement to supply reading materials to soldiers, aiming to provide a form of solace, distraction, and a mental respite amidst the tumult of war. The American Library Association, with artists such as Charles Buckles Falls, played a pivotal role in this movement, promoting the importance of books to both the soldiers and the home front.
The poster presents a soldier laden with a stack of books, standing as a potent symbol of the interplay between military service and intellectual sustenance. The image is a strong portrayal of the reading soldier, a trope that gained popularity during this period, and presents a multifaceted narrative of the time - illuminating the quotidian elements of military life, the importance of civilian contribution, and the role of public institutions such as libraries in supporting the war effort.
This poster offers a significant reflection on the socio-cultural aspects of World War I. It represents the war's influence on domestic and community spheres, and demonstrates the crucial role of the printed word in maintaining morale, delivering comfort, and nurturing the intellect during times of profound unrest. This is a valuable resource for those interested in the cultural history of war, book history, and the role of public institutions in times of crisis.
