The Collected Library, Including Americana and Early Photography

(New York): Bernard Geis Associates, (1960). Author's Edition (one of only 100 special limited edition copies for Truman's personal dispersal to friends, family members, and colleagues). 8vo. 315 pp. Presentation copy, warmly inscribed by Truman on half-title to his former Secretary of Defense Robert A. Lovett: “To the Honorable Robert A. Lovett / from / his good friend and great admirer of a ‘friend in need’ / Harry Truman / Independence / August 18, 1960”. Illustrated with black and white photographic reproductions. Publisher's quarter brown leatherette over patterned paper-covered boards, black cover and spine labels, stamped in gilt; marbled endpapers; in original glassine, scattered wear and tears along edges; in original slip case with photographic cover label, panels unevenly toned. 

A near-fine presentation copy of President Harry Truman's memoir of his post-Presidential years, warmly inscribed to his former Secretary of Defense, Robert A. Lovett (1895-1986). Lovett served as the fourth Secretary of Defense, from 1951-53, helping steer the administration through the Korean War and spearheading the expansion of America's national security apparatus. Recruited into Washington by General George C. Marshall, Lovett worked closely with the latter during his time as Secretary of State and Secretary of Defense, and was instrumental in implementing the Marshall Plan, as well as the formation of NATO. Following the election of Eisenhower, Lovett returned to private life, but continued to act as a consultant in Washington, including advising President Kennedy during the Cuban Missile Crisis.